Gardening with the RHS How to be a Hoverfly Hero
Mar 27, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Josie Stuart, an RHS entomologist, emphasizes the crucial role of hoverflies in gardens and offers tips for supporting their populations. Jonathan Sheppard shares his expertise on Cosmos flowers, highlighting their beauty and how they attract pollinators. Meanwhile, Sarah Cook reveals her journey to revive the lost irises of Sir Cedric Morris, celebrating these stunning blooms that blend artistry and horticulture. Together, they inspire gardeners to cultivate a more vibrant and eco-friendly garden.
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Hoverfly Mimicry and Identification
- Hoverflies mimic bees and wasps but belong to a different insect order with only one pair of wings.
- Their large eyes and short antennae distinguish them, serving as protection through mimicry against predators.
Hoverflies Vital for Pollination
- Hoverflies pollinate over half of global food crops, making them vital for food security.
- However, UK hoverfly populations have declined by 44% since 1980, threatening biodiversity and productivity.
How To Attract Hoverflies
- Create hoverfly lagoons with stagnant water and organic waste to attract larvae.
- Plant open flowers with easy-access nectar like English marigolds and oxeye daisies to attract adult hoverflies.