The Power of Beneficial Insects and Trees on Farms

Invertebrate animals, including insects, spiders, and worms, make up over 95% of Australia’s animal diversity and around 55% of its total biodiversity. These small creatures may be easy to overlook, but they are absolutely essential to the health of our ecosystems. Invertebrates help maintain the balance in nature by breaking down organic matter, recycling nutrients, pollinating plants, dispersing seeds, and controlling pest populations. However, despite their importance, many invertebrate species are not included in conservation plans, even though hundreds are listed as threatened. Supporting these species is crucial for ensuring that our ecological and economic systems remain stable.

One of the best ways to support invertebrates on farms is by enhancing their natural habitats. Australia has over 24,000 native plant and tree species that do more than beautify a landscape—they provide food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife, including bees, birds, and frogs. Trees and shrubs planted along field edges or in dedicated tree belts boost local biodiversity, reduce radiant heat by up to 50%, and offer wind protection for livestock and crops. These plantings help with erosion management and salinity control, making farms healthier for both people and animals. By creating these mini-habitats, farmers can help beneficial insects thrive and, in turn, increase natural pest control.

On small farms, beneficial insects like pollinators and natural pest controllers play a vital role. Studies on small bean farms have shown that fields with greater plant diversity—especially with trees and flowering plants along field margins—attract more pollinators and natural predators, such as ladybugs that feed on aphids. The result? Higher crop yields and reduced need for chemical pesticides, creating a healthier farm environment. Farmers should consider planting a mix of native species in field margins to encourage these helpful insects, while carefully selecting plants to avoid non-native species that may disrupt the ecosystem.

In addition to natural plantings, farmers can introduce beneficial insects directly by purchasing them from reputable suppliers. Insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites provide a targeted, natural pest control solution, especially for crops that may be vulnerable to aphids, caterpillars, or mites. Combined with diverse plantings of native trees and shrubs, this strategy supports a balanced and resilient farm ecosystem. By fostering habitats and introducing beneficial insects as needed, farmers can protect biodiversity while promoting long-term, sustainable productivity.

Pest management & fruit fly specialists | Bugs For Bugs

Invertebrates Australia

Insectariums-Case-study-AUGUST-2018.pdf



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Winter Clearance

Winter Clearance

We’re making room for our spring seedlings with a special stock clearance!
For just $2.00 each, you can take home any of the following:

  • Australian Vetiver (Chrysopogon filipes)
  • Lemon Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
  • Blakely’s Red Gum (Eucalyptus blakelyi)
  • Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta)
  • White Cypress (Callitris glaucophylla)
  • Sandpaper Fig (Ficus coronata)
  • New England Blackbutt (Eucalyptus campanulata)
  • Native Flax Lily (Dianella caerulea)
  • Spiny-headed Mat Rush (Lomandra longifolia)


Don’t miss this chance to stock up on hardy natives at a great price – perfect for your garden or revegetation project.



DCCEEW Stakeholder Survey

As part of ongoing stakeholder consultation, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has developed a short survey to better understand how climate change is impacting restoration projects across the state.
The survey aims to: 

  • Capture local experiences of climate risks and impacts on restoration efforts,
  • Identify whether climate adaptation actions are being considered or implemented, and
  • Understand what information, tools, or resources could better support restoration practitioners in planning for a changing climate.


We are hoping to reach a wide range of practitioners, planners and policy makers working in ecological restoration across NSW and would greatly appreciate your help in circulating this survey through your networks.

The survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and does not collect any personal or identifying information. All responses will be reviewed carefully to ensure they remain anonymous.

Please feel free to forward this message and survey link to any colleagues, project partners or relevant contacts who may be interested in contributing. The broader the reach, the better the insights we can gather to support effective, climate-resilient restoration in NSW.


Learn the art of Nature Journaling with Henrietta Mooney

Reconnect with nature, spark your creativity, and enjoy a mindful afternoon outdoors!

Our members often say that when you become part of Landcare, you’re not just joining a group, you’re becoming part of a family. The concept is so compatible with Australian culture it’s hard not to get involved! By becoming a TRLA member, you’ll be supporting our work, learning new skills, becoming part of the solution, and helping to make a difference for the future.

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together we can make a difference

funding support

Did you know (TRLA) run an Annual Small Grants program for Landcare activities connected to the Tamworth region.

Volunteer Landcare and Grassroots Community groups can apply up to $2,500 for activities that meet an objective of TRLA’s strategic plan with eight successful projects being awarded funds from across the region.

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