Amblyseius californicus - Loose Predators - Spider Mite Curative System

What Are Spider Mites & How Do I Identify Them?

There are several species of Spider Mite with the most common being the Two Spotted Spider Mite (tetranychus urticae). These mites have an oval body and eight legs. They vary in colour from green, yellow, orange-red and dark brown. The eggs are circular and generally located on the underside of leaves. The damage will be evident with the yellowing of leaves, especially on the underside. Yellow dots will also show on top with the whole leaf eventually turning yellow. Spider Mites can also produce webbing on leaves when the population is high.

What Are Amblyseius Californicus Mites & How Can They Help?

Amblyseius (Neoseiulus) californicus is an effective predator of the Two Spotted Mite (Tetranychus urticae) commonly known as the Red Spider Mite. It can also be used against Broad Mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus).

These californicus predators are packaged in a loose carrier material for instant release onto infestations. If Spider Mites are present in large numbers we advise the combined application of loose californicus and Phytoseiulus persimilis predators to tackle the infestation.

Severe Spider Mite infestations may require more than one application of predators. Allow 7-10 days and reapply if Spider Mites are still visibly present. Consider also applying our Amblyseius californicus sachets. 

When Should I Use Loose Californicus?

We advise using loose californicus when Spider Mite is already present on the plant. This immediately releases a large number of active predators to bring infestations under control. Do not apply if you have used chemical treatments in the past 2 weeks. Do not apply outdoors on plants, as it does not have a release license for use outside on plants.

What Conditions Do The Californicus Require?

Temperatures should be between 13-35℃ and ideally at a relative humidity above 60%, however lower levels can be endured by the californicus.

How Many Californicus Mites Do I Need?

We recommend the following application rate based on an average plant height of 1m:

- 200 californicus predators per plant

How Do I Apply The Loose Californicus?

Spider Mite often feed at the top of plants, so ensure the californicus are released in that area of the plant, or in other evident hot spots of Spider Mite activity. The californicus are supplied in shaker bottles, so you can apply the predators by rotating the bottle and gently shaking the contents directly onto the infested leaves of the plants. 

Californicus can also be applied using our Dragonfli Distribution Boxes, which will be more effective for larger plants. Distribute the shaker bottle contents into your boxes and hang them on the stems or leaves of your plants. The boxes act as small breeding sites for the predators before they proceed to exit the boxes and move around the plants.

Repeat applications may be required to maintain californicus populations or applications of sachets if the Spider Mite numbers were high when the predators were first applied.

Full instructions are provided on delivery.

Can I Store The Californicus Predators?

We advise using californicus straight away upon delivery, this ensures best results as the Mites will be fresh.

Warning: Amblyseius californicus is a non-native predator and can only be applied indoors and in glasshouses. By purchasing this product you are agreeing to these restrictions.

Chemical Pesticides

Amblyseius californicus is a living creature and can be affected by any chemical pesticides used within the previous few weeks. As a general guide, refrain from using Natural Pyrethrum or SB Plant Invigorator 2 days prior to use. Other chemical insecticides can have long lasting residues that could harm californicus and other predatory mites for much longer periods. Refrain from using these products or check with Dragonfli for information on the effect of these products on the predatory mites.