Hoverflies Thriving

In these balmy days of early September I have noticed a significant increase in the number of hoverflies in my garden. Like the Bumblebee they are particularly attracted to the large Perennial Anemone 'Serenade'.

Semi-double, deep pink flowers

Hoverflies feed on pollen and nectar, which the anemone has in abundance. The largest number present in my garden is represented by Episyrphus balteatus, a medium sized hoverfly with a rather narrow body and broad yellow bands on the abdomen.

Episyrphus balteatus

Second in numbers present is the Melanostoma scalare, a smaller hoverfly, with a very narrow body. The yellow marks on the abdomen are not complete bands and a black line runs down the middle of the back.

Melanostoma scalare

I am always pleased to see hoverflies in the garden as many hoverfly larvae are important predators of aphids, so chemical control of aphids should be avoided. The African marigold is another good flower to attract adult hoverflies.