praying mantis & geckos - Knowledgebase Question

Jacksonville, Fl
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Question by kaygfox
May 22, 2010
Can we use praying mantis and geckos to control pests in our vegetable and fruit gardens. Do they work and survive in FL?


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Answer from NGA
May 22, 2010
Geckos will help control insects, but there's a law against releasing them in Florida so you'd need to make sure they are securely contained within your garden. Several species of Preying mantids are native to Florida and since they are naturally occuring, you'll probably find some in your garden, especially if you are careful not to use insecticides. In general, there is a natural balance of insects in every garden. When the destructive insect population grows, beneficials usually show up - all on their own. I'd just let nature take its course. Handpick the bad bugs and wait for the good bugs to come to your rescue.

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