Spider Mite Biological Control - Phytoseiulus Persimilis 500 pack

Phytoseiulus Persimilis is a fast-moving and voracious predatory mite that feeds almost exclusively on many types of spider mite.

Best results are obtained by releasing Phytoseiulus Persimilis soon after spider mites first appear on a crop. For best results, apply later in the spring to avoid low temperatures which can effect the predatory mites success rate.

Phytoseiulus Persimilis move rapidly over plants, searching for they prey and each individual can consume 5 adults or 20 immature stages of spider mite per day. The secret of Phytoseiulus’ success is simple; it’s development from egg to adult is twice as fast as that of the spider mite at 20-22 degrees centigrade, although the predator does have a problem moving from plant to plant; leaves that touch provide a transfer from one plant to another, and where this is unpractical, the use of string or netting to provide a miniature walkway is advised. This predator is capable of totally eradicating red spider mite infestations but there is a negative to this positive; the Phytoseiulus will die out from starvation and will need to be reintroduced if new spider mite infestations occur.

We supply Phytoseiulus Persimilis on a leaf as complete colonies of adults, juveniles and eggs.

How do I know I have a Spider Mite infestation?
Spider Mites attack many plants including tomatoes, strawberries and ornamentals causing leaves to turn yellow. They are a common pest and their presence is indicated by a very fine light speckling or as localised pale yellow spots on the upper surfaces of leaves. Extensive damage is caused to leaves, buds and flowers and leaves will eventually becomes bronzed – in severe cases, leaves may even wither and die. Examination of the underside of leaves with a magnifying glass should reveal colonies of red mites with minute spherical eggs. In extreme cases which remain untreated, greenhouses and house plants may be covered by masses of mites and webbing which they spin.

NOTE: We would recommend applying 30 mites per square metre as a rule of thumb, but for hot spots more may be needed.

Size: 500 pack