Garden Advice: Peter Dowdall on why we love ladybirds

Most gardens, if left chemical-free, can have a healthy supply of predators to keep the pests in check

Ladybirds will feed voraciously on greenfly and other aphids and should be encouraged in the garden. Many garden pest killers will also kill ladybirds and other beneficial insects. Picture: iStock

If you are busy planning your container gardening projects for this year, give some thought to planting herbs. Many of us will not have space for a herb garden, or in some cases any garden at all, but that does not mean you cannot reap the benefits associated with growing your own.