Garling says there are abundant beneficial organisms in most gardens. Probably the three most common beneficial insects in Pennsylvania are ladybird beetles, green lacewings and hover flies. Garling says to encourage beneficials, plan or modify the garden habitat to provide for their needs. The best way to provide those things is to have diversity of plants in your garden. You should plant a mixture of perennials, biennials and annuals, and make sure there's always something flowering.
Flowers are a great source of energy for foraging predators and parasites.
Establish a mulched area that provides a moist environment, and keep other areas dry and airy. Garling also recommends using caution when applying pesticides in your garden. Traditionally, garden pesticides have been broad spectrum, meaning they will kill a wide range of insects, including beneficials. So, when using pesticides, be sure you know what pest is causing your problem and carefully read and follow the label instructions. Garling says you should try to apply the pesticide at a time when beneficial insects are least likely to be present, and consider using insecticidal soaps, botanicals or other products that are less likely to affect beneficials.