Encarsia formosa - Pro Tips

  • Yellow sticky traps can catch Encarsia. We recommend removing sticky traps at time of release.

  • Encarsia can target different whitefly species but will parasitize 2nd and 4th instars of the whitefly nymph. It needs whitefly nymphs to complete its lifecycle.

  • Parasitized whitefly nymphs can take 10-14 days to begin appearing. Whitefly nymphs will begin turning a black hue if parasitized by Encarsia.

  • To achieve a comprehensive approach to controlling whiteflies, it is recommended to combine the use of Encarsia formosa with other beneficial predators such as Delphastus catalinae and Eretmocerus eremicus.

  • Pesticides, even-wetting agents, and spreader-stickers may adversely affect beneficial insect survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic.

  • Depending on the size and type of plants, the number and type of pests, other predator and parasite populations, and temperature, the frequency of releases may be affected.