Do Spiders Help Plants Grow?
WouterIf you have a garden, you might have heard of spiders. Some might wonder if these tiny creatures actually help plants grow. Although the answer is a resounding yes, there are some downsides.
Spiders are not the only creature to help your plants grow. Other species, such as bees, birds and even fish can also be beneficial. They can help control pests, eat the bad guys, and keep disease-causing insects at bay.
In fact, a spider’s ability to create a web can be used to your advantage. While you can’t always depend on spiders to do the work for you, there are things you can do to attract them to your yard.
The best time to start attracting spiders is in the spring. This is when they will be most active and it will be easier to catch them. You can also try no-till gardening to avoid disturbing them.
In addition to helping plants grow, spiders are also a good way to make sure your yard is free of mosquitoes and other pests. Their venom is not dangerous, and their voracious appetites can help to rid your plants of unwanted visitors.
The most obvious use for spiders is to prevent other creatures from swarming your plants. The most effective way to do this is to provide an appropriate habitat. An easy way to do this is by mulching. A loose layer of leaves or grass clippings can create a great home for spiders.
