Beneficial Insects

In fall, a lawn service informed us we had chinch bug damage to our lawn. We thought it was just burned out from the hot, dry summer. How can we tell if we have chinch bugs? If so, how can we treat the lawn and prevent future problems?

I have a very large evergreen tree in my backyard and I would like to have a bird and butterfly garden in that corner. What will grow under and around this tree that will attract birds and butterflies?

I would like to create a garden that attracts butterflies. I wanted to use milkweed, but I read that it is very invasive and hard to control. Can you recommend one that is not invasive?

I’ve read that you should plant tomatoes next to carrots to increase your yield of both crops and lessen the risk of insect damage. Are there any other good combinations to consider when planning your garden?

I read that planting certain flowers in the vegetable garden will keep out unwanted pests. Which ones are effective?

My lilac is having problems. There are holes along the edges of the leaves that look like someone went through with a hole punch, they're all nearly perfect. I didn't see any little critters.