How to Grow Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro)
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Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro)
Lobularia maritima & Coriandrum sativum
herbBeneficial insectary plants are specially selected herbs and flowers that attract predatory and pollinator insects to gardens, creating a natural pest management ecosystem. Sweet alyssum and cilantro are among the most effective choices, offering abundant nectar and pollen while supporting beneficial insects like parasitic wasps, lacewings, and hover flies. These plants work together to improve pollination, reduce pest populations, and enhance overall garden health.
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Example Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro)
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Alyssum thrives in zones 3-11; cilantro prefers cooler zones 2-11 and bolts in extreme heat
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Get my Beneficial Insectary Plants (Alyssum & Cilantro) timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge within 7-14 days. Alyssum develops fine cotyledons; cilantro shows distinctive feathery foliage
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide bright, indirect light. Thin seedlings to recommended spacing to reduce competition
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlants develop true leaves and establish root systems. Alyssum becomes bushy and compact; cilantro forms feathery foliage clumps
Water regularly and maintain consistent moisture. Begin light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Pinch cilantro tops occasionally to encourage bushier growth
Flowering & Blooming
4-6 weeks continuous (alyssum); 2-3 weeks (cilantro before seed set)Alyssum produces abundant small, fragrant white, pink, or purple flower clusters. Cilantro sends up delicate white or pale pink flowers on elongated stems
Continue regular watering. Alyssum flowers attract beneficial insects immediately. Cilantro flowers signal bolting; if seeds aren't desired, deadhead to extend leaf harvest. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to support flowering
Seed Production
2-3 weeksCilantro develops small, round, ribbed coriander seeds in tan or brown color. Alyssum produces tiny seed pods if left to mature
Allow flowers to remain on plants if seeds are desired for replanting or coriander spice harvest. Reduce watering slightly to concentrate plant energy. Monitor for seed ripening and collect before seeds drop
Beneficial Insect Activity Peak
Ongoing throughout flowering periodGardens peak in pollinator and parasitic wasp activity. Hoverflies, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and bees actively work flowers throughout the day
Maintain continuous flowering by succession planting every 2-3 weeks. Avoid pesticides to protect beneficial populations. Observe and document insect species visiting plants. Allow some flowers to mature for seeds to feed insects
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers during early growth; neem oil spray; encourage parasitic wasps and tachinid flies (attracted by alyssum and flowering plants)
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Strong water spray to dislodge; yellow sticky traps; encourage hover flies and lacewings through continuous flowering; insecticidal soap as last resort
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Strong water spray; ladybugs and parasitic wasps (attracted by flowers); neem oil; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; sulfur dust or baking soda spray; remove affected leaves
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Maintain consistent moisture; predatory mites attracted by insectary plants; misting; neem oil spray
Uses
Attracts Beneficial Predatory Insects
WildlifeAlyssum and cilantro flowers provide abundant nectar and pollen for parasitic wasps, lacewings, hoverflies, and ladybugs that prey on garden pests like aphids, whiteflies, and mites. Creating continuous blooms attracts and sustains these natural pest controllers throughout the growing season. [source]
Supports Pollinator Populations
WildlifeBoth plants attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential for fruit and seed production in vegetable gardens. Their profuse small flowers provide reliable food sources during mid and late season when other nectar sources may be limited. [source]
Cilantro Leaves & Coriander Seeds
CulinaryFresh cilantro leaves are used in cuisines worldwide for salads, salsas, curries, and garnishes. Mature coriander seeds are a warm spice used in Indian cooking, pickling, and baking. [source]
Integrated Pest Management
HouseholdThese plants form the foundation of ecological insectary gardens, reducing need for chemical pesticides and creating self-sustaining pest control ecosystems. Planting them alongside vegetables dramatically reduces pest damage naturally. [source]
Cilantro & Coriander Health Uses
MedicinalCilantro leaves are traditionally used in herbal medicine for digestion, and modern research suggests potential heavy metal binding properties. Coriander seeds are used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Alyssum: Pinch flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and sustained nectar production; allow some flowers to go to seed for natural reseeding and insect food. Cilantro leaves: Harvest outer leaves once plants reach 6 inches tall, or cut entire plant 1-2 inches above soil for regeneration; cilantro bolts quickly in heat, so succession plant every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply. For coriander seeds: Allow cilantro flowers to mature fully, then collect seed pods when they turn tan and dry completely; store seeds in cool, dry container.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Parasitic wasps attracted to alyssum and cilantro flowers can lay hundreds of eggs inside pest insects like aphids and whiteflies, naturally controlling populations without harming beneficial insects.
- 🌱 Sweet alyssum is sometimes called 'the beneficial insect magnet' because its small, fragrant flowers provide the perfect landing pad and nectar source for tiny beneficial insects that require nectar high in sugar content.
- 🌱 Cilantro is the only plant part of Coriandrum sativum; the same plant produces both the fresh herb (cilantro/coriander leaves) and the spice (coriander seeds), depending on harvest timing.
Gardening Terms
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