Phytoseiulus persimilis - Spider Mite Curative System (Predators)

Understanding Spider Mites and Phytoseiulus Persimilis Mites for Pest Control

Spider Mites Identification:
Spider mites encompass several species, with the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae) being the most prevalent. These minuscule arachnids possess oval bodies and eight legs, displaying a spectrum of colors from green to yellow, orange-red, and dark brown. Their circular eggs are typically situated on the undersides of leaves. Indicators of their presence include leaf yellowing, particularly on the undersides, the appearance of yellow dots on the upper leaf surface, and, in severe cases, the formation of webbing.

Phytoseiulus Persimilis Mites for Effective Pest Control:
Phytoseiulus persimilis, a predatory mite, is employed to combat the Red Spider Mite, proving highly effective in addressing severe infestations and targeted Spider Mite areas. These predatory mites are a widely adopted biological pest control measure in greenhouses and controlled environments. They actively feed on all life stages of the Spider Mite, from eggs to adults. With a faster life cycle than their prey, Phytoseiulus mites can double their population every two days under favorable conditions. During this period, they consume five adult Spider Mites and 20 Spider Mite larvae daily, resulting in a rapid decline in the Spider Mite population and safeguarding plant health.

Enhanced Phytoseiulus Predators:
Dragonfli now provides Phytoseiulus persimilis mites that undergo advanced breeding to boost their nutritional intake during early development. This enables them to produce eggs more rapidly upon release onto plants, ensuring heightened activity levels and faster Spider Mite detection and feeding. An intriguing feature of this new breeding method is that the Phytoseiulus mites change color, transitioning from white to red as they commence feeding.

When to Apply Phytoseiulus:
Phytoseiulus mites should be introduced when Spider Mites are already present on the plants. This promptly deploys a substantial number of active predators to curtail infestations. However, refrain from applying Phytoseiulus if chemical treatments have been used in the past two weeks.

Required Conditions for Phytoseiulus:
To maximize their effectiveness, maintain temperatures between 15-28℃ and a relative humidity of approximately 75%. If conditions become excessively dry, the predators will relocate to the plant's lower regions in search of moisture.

Optimal Quantity of Phytoseiulus Mites:
For an average plant height of 1m, we recommend an application rate of 100 Phytoseiulus mites per plant. In cases of severe infestations characterized by webbing and yellow patches on leaves, consider doubling the rate and applying a second round 7-10 days after the initial treatment.

Application Methods:
Phytoseiulus predators are supplied in shaker bottles for easy application. Shake the contents gently onto infested leaves, targeting the upper portions where Spider Mites tend to feed. For larger plants, utilize Dragonfli Distribution Boxes, enhancing effectiveness by providing breeding sites for the predators. The mites will exit the boxes and disperse throughout the plants.

Storage Considerations:
For optimal results, use Phytoseiulus mites immediately upon delivery to ensure their freshness.

Chemical Pesticides Precaution:
Phytoseiulus persimilis is a living organism susceptible to the effects of chemical pesticides used in the preceding weeks. Avoid using Natural Pyrethrum or SB Plant Invigorator two days before introducing the mites. Other chemical insecticides may leave long-lasting residues that could harm predatory mites over extended periods. Consult our staff for guidance on the compatibility of specific chemical products with predatory mites.

• Sizes2000 Preds
• BrandPrestwich Hydroponics

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