Mantids and gardening

[MantisTrainer]

Hi everyone. I was wondering if anyone knew how to attract mantises to your garden or, at least, make your garden a hospitable place for them. I've read some general information(add plants that attract food for them, make lots of places to hide etc.), but nothing too specific. Has anybody been able to successfully keep native or naturalized species in their garden for multiple years and if so, how?

 

[ANTdrew]

To attract any insects, the key is to plant a wide variety of native plants. Native shrubs and bushes would provide good shelter for a mantis. Research what grows well in your area and head to some plant sales in the spring!