Learn how to attract fireflies to your yard this summer!
Lighting bugs, or fireflies, thrive in the summer heat. The luminescent insect lives in various habitats and can be found all over the world, but they’re especially attracted to warm and humid climates. Do you enjoy the sight of twinkling fireflies on your property? Discover how you can create an attractive environment for fireflies this summer!
Plant Native Pine Trees
Lighting bugs mate and lay their eggs in the canopy of native pine trees. The trees provide a dark, safe place for fireflies to rest during the daytime. Larvae can grow and flourish in their needles, creating the perfect habitat for population growth.
Don’t Cut the Grass so Often
During the summertime, professional landscapers recommend cutting your lawn on a higher setting to protect the root system from the heat. If you want to attract more fireflies, take your lawn care one step further, and stop mowing as frequently. Fireflies are attracted to high grasses and shrubbery, and they rest on tall blades of grass during the day. Mowing too often can actually reduce the number of fireflies in your yard in general.
Install a Water Feature
Fireflies love moisture, especially standing water areas like marshes and ponds. The insects live and mate near the water, which is why you’ll often spot them where fields meet streams. Consider having a water feature installed to attract more lightning bugs to your property. If you don’t have the time or resources for a water feature, fill a small baby pool with water.
Turn Off the Landscape Lighting
Outdoor lights can interfere with a firefly’s glow, which is used to ward off predators and attract mates. By turning off the landscape lighting and deck lighting, you’re providing fireflies with a dark, safe place to thrive. Now, you can enjoy the sight of fireflies, and they can enjoy a safe, welcoming habitat. It’s a win-win scenario!
VISIT AMERICAN NATIVE PLANTS
Whether you’re looking to build a rain garden or beautify your property, American Native Plants can provide you with the right plants for the job. With an inventory of over 400,000 native trees, native shrubs, and herbaceous plants consider American Native Plants your one-stop shop for wholesale native plant needs.
Our nursery, conveniently located in Middle River, Maryland, is open year-round to accommodate your native plant needs. We are constantly updating and increasing our inventory to meet the demands of our customers.
Peruse our catalog, give us a call, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter!