Aphids are the major pest of many vegetables in the coastal areas of California.
Attempts to control aphids without conventional insecticides have not been successful in most large-scale commercial applications. Recently, leafminers have become an increasing problem in these crops as well. In these areas beneficial insects and other beneficial arthropods could find food and shelter. It is hoped that by providing such areas, the populations of beneficial organisms could be increased to such a level that pest populations would be reduced on adjoining crop plants. It is known that many beneficial organisms such as parasitic wasps, green lacewings, syrphid flies, etc., need nectar and pollen as adults while feeding on aphids as immatures.