Ladybirds and lacewings are avid aphid eaters and provide a natural, environmentally friendly way to manage these insects in the garden. Mason bees are excellent pollinators of fruit, vegetables and flowers. Lodges for ladybirds, mason bees and lacewings provide crevices for these beneficial insects to live. Ladybirds and lacewings will shelter there and hibernate over the winter whilst mason bees will nest and lay eggs.

Insect boxes can be placed on the ground although soil will splash onto them in the rain. Height is not critical but ideally nests should be placed 75-150cm (2'6"- 5ft) above the ground. Pinning them to trees is an option but mason bees are not keen on the movement, wind and exposure. Ideal places are walls, the eaves of outbuildings or fence posts, but preferably not in an exposed position in the middle of a garden. Mason bees, in particular, are fond of edges and lines, probably because hedgerows and woodland edges are natural nesting places. Placing a nest box near the ground is fine if it is on a log pile. Here, the soil won't splash in the rain and mason bees, ladybirds and lacewings naturally check out the crevices left in wood by rotting and beetle activity.

Aim for a sunny, east-facing spot which will get morning sun or a south-facing spot. Mason bees dislike dappled shade. A sheltered spot would make the flight path easier and reduce cold draughts in winter. Avoid north-facing locations. Placing a mason bee nest near to plants you would like to pollinate would benefit them and the gardener.

Ensure the flight path isn't hindered by vegetation. If earwigs are found to be breaking open completed nests you could smear some grease or petroleum gel on the bracket or other route of entry to deter them.

Don't disturb an insect home during winter. Waking from hibernation uses up a lot of energy reserves and the insect may not make it through to spring. Replace the bedding once a year in early summer after disinfecting. Please make sure no one is home first!