Introducing the Ultimate Pest Control Trio: Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus, and Amblyseius andersoni

For the most effective pest control, look no further than the Triple Threat! By combining these three species, you can tackle a wide range of growing conditions and ensure comprehensive pest management. Each species comes specialized to address your specific gardening and farming needs. Additionally, we have provided information on pests controlled, recommended environment and conditions, crops, and release instructions for each species.

Predator mites offer several advantages over sprays, other predators, or parasites as biological controls:

1. Targeted Pest Control: Predator mites specifically target the pest species they are intended to control, such as spider mites. This targeted approach minimizes the impact on beneficial insects and non-target organisms, allowing for selective pest management.

   
   

   Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly: Predator mites are a natural solution that fits well within integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. They do not leave behind harmful residues or contribute to pesticide resistance, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

   
   

   Continuous Pest Suppression: Unlike sprays, which provide temporary control, predator mites establish a self-sustaining population that can provide ongoing pest suppression. Once released, they continue to reproduce and feed on pests, maintaining long-term control.

   
   

   Ability to Reach Hidden Areas: Predator mites can access hard-to-reach areas of the plant, such as the undersides of leaves, where pest populations often reside. This allows for effective control even in challenging environments or dense foliage.

   
   

   Adaptability and Persistence: Predator mites are adaptable to various environmental conditions and can persist over extended periods, continuously targeting and controlling pests. They can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity, ensuring consistent pest management.

   
   

   Reduced Chemical Inputs: By utilizing predator mites, growers can reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides. This decreases the risks associated with pesticide use, such as chemical residues, environmental contamination, and detrimental effects on beneficial organisms.

   
   

   Integration with Other Biological Controls: Predator mites can be used in combination with other biological controls, such as parasitic wasps or beneficial nematodes, to create a comprehensive and integrated approach to pest management.

1. Phytoseiulus persimilis:

Pests Controlled: Phytoseiulus persimilis is highly effective in controlling two-spotted spider mites, a common greenhouse and outdoor crop pest. P. persimilis also controls Red spider mites (Tetranychus spp.), Carmine spider mites (Tetranychus cinnabarinus), and Strawberry spider mites (Tetranychus turkestani). Spider mites can cause significant damage to a variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.

Environment and Conditions: Phytoseiulus persimilis thrives in environments with a wide temperature range of 55 - 105+ F and a moderate humidity range of 55 - 90%.

Recommended Crops: This predatory mite is particularly suitable for controlling two-spotted spider mites on greenhouse plants and outdoor crops in mild climates. It can be used on a variety of crops, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, and roses.

Release Instructions: To utilize Phytoseiulus persimilis, evenly distribute the mites onto the infested plants. This species is active at room temperature and completes its development cycle, from egg to adult, within 7 days. A well-fed female can lay approximately 50 eggs during her lifetime.

2. Neoseiulus californicus:

Pests Controlled: Neoseiulus californicus is an efficient predator of spider mites, a common pest affecting fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Spider mites cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves, resulting in stunted growth and webbing.

N. californicus controls a variety of pests including:

• Spider mites (Tetranychidae) in general
• Two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae)
• Carmine spider mites (Tetranychus cinnabarinus)
• Strawberry spider mites (Tetranychus turkestani)
• Rust aka Russet mites (Aceria spp.)
• Broad mites (Polyphagotarsonemus spp.)

Environment and Conditions: This species thrives in environments with a moderate temperature range of 55 - 90 F and a high humidity range of 60 - 90%.

Recommended Crops: Neoseiulus californicus is particularly effective in controlling spider mites on a wide range of crops, including strawberries, peppers, beans, citrus fruits, and roses.

Release Instructions: To utilize Neoseiulus californicus, gently release the mites onto the infested plants. These small mites have a translucent larval stage, and their eggs typically hatch within 1.5 to 4 days, depending on temperature. Females lay 2-4 eggs daily, ensuring a continuous population growth.

3. Amblyseius andersoni:

Pests Controlled: Amblyseius andersoni is a formidable predator against two-spotted spider mites, a common pest in orchards, vineyards, and gardens. These mites cause damage to fruit trees, ornamental plants, and roses. A andersoni controls a wide range of mites and pests including:

• Two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae)
• Red spider mites (Tetranychus spp.)
• European red mites (Panonychus spp.)
• Pacific spider mites (Tetranychus pacificus)
• Cyclamen mites (Phytonemus pallidus)
• Rust aka Russet mites (Aceria spp.)
• Thrips (Thysanoptera)
• Fungus gnats (Sciaridae)
• Pollen mites (Tydeidae)

Environment and Conditions: Amblyseius andersoni predatory mites are active within the lowest and broadest temperature range from 42 degrees F to 100 degrees F.  During periods of low temperatures or short photoperiods (less than 10 hours of light) they will go dormant until conditions change.

Recommended Crops: Amblyseius andersoni is highly effective in controlling two-spotted spider mites on crops such as apples, peaches, pears, cherries, grapes, roses, and other ornamental plants.

Release Instructions: To utilize Amblyseius andersoni, release the predatory mites onto the infested plants. These mites are polyphagous and omnivorous, feeding on various pests, thrips, fungi, and pollen. They remain active even when pests are scarce. Amblyseius andersoni adapts well to diverse environments and temperature ranges.

Overall, predator mites offer effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly pest control, making them a preferred choice for many growers seeking long-term solutions and reduced reliance on chemical interventions.

Remember, you can use each species individually or in combination to achieve the best results. If you don't specify your preference, our Triple Threat mix, including all three species, will be provided to ensure comprehensive pest control.