Stethorus punctillum - Spider Mite Destroyer

$48.99

SKU: 278
TARGET PESTS

Scientific Name:Stethorus punctillum

Two-Spotted Spider Mites (Tetranychus urticae), European Red Mites (Panonychusulmi), Spruce Spider Mites (Oligonycus ununguis) and Southern Red Mites (Oligonychus ilicis).
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

SHIPPED FRESH & QUALITY GUARANTEED

Spider mite destroyer.

Stethorus punctillum is a member of the Coccinellid Beetle family, commonly known as ladybugs. These Spider Mite Destroyers are spider mite specialists but will supplement their diet with aphids and other small soft-bodied insects when spider mite populations are low. They are recognized by their distinctive round, dome shape, dark brown to black body about 1.5mm in size, fine hairs on its wing covers, and characteristic brownish-yellow markings on its mouth parts, legs, and antennae. Both the adults and larvae play a crucial role in targeting spider mites at all stages, especially two spotted spider mites.

Females lay small, oval-shaped eggs on the undersides of plant leaves, close to areas infested with spider mites. The eggs hatch within 2-3 days into elongated, alligator-like larvae that actively feed on immature spider mites. The larval stage is a critical period for predation on pest populations before entering the pupal stage for about 4-7 days. When fully formed adults emerge, they continue to feed on spider mites in all life stages, and other soft-bodied pests if necessary, for their 2-4 week lifespan.
INTRODUCTION RATES

10 Beetles per infested plant, weekly, 3-4 times.
Or 100 beetles per "Hot Spot," weekly until established
Temperature Range: 68-86°F
Humidity: 60-80%

It's important to note that these introduction rates serve as general guidelines and can differ depending on the specific pest species, the plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
APPLICATION
      Introduce during mild morning or evening temperatures.

      Locate plants with Spider Mite infestations. Disperse beetles onto infested area by sprinkling bottle contents directly onto plants. Leave open container in place for 24 hours to allow any remaining beetles to be introduced.
        PRO TIPS
        • For complete control of a spider mite infestation, use in conjunction with predatory mites such as:
          Amblyseius andersoni - Generalist that tolerates high heats
          Amblyseius cucumeris - Thrips & Spider Mite Control
          Amblyseius swirskii - Spider Mite, Thrips, & Whitefly Control
          Neoseiulus californicus - Generalist that tolerates high heats
          Phytoseiulus persimilis - Two-Spotted Spider Mite Specialist


        • For complete control of a spider mite infestation, use in conjunction with Feltiella acarisuga, an effective predator of spider mites that can fly.

        • Proper identification of the pest species is important. Monitoring the crop closely and introducing beneficial insects early will help in control pest populations.

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

        STORAGE
        For best results, introduce immediately upon receipt. If storage is necessary, store at 50-60°F for no longer than 18 hours. Store out of direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
          DISCLAIMER / SHIPPING POLICY

          STORE POLICIES

          Thank you for shopping with us! Before placing your order, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund and Return Policy. By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms.

          We do not provide recommendations on pesticide use. Products are sold for home use only, not commercial use.

          QUALITY GUARANTEE

          If your beneficial insects or other perishable products are not viable when delivered, email info@naturesgoodguys.com within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and a description of the problem. Photos may be requested. Approved replacements ship on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

          • Open your package right away and check for storage instructions. Some products need refrigeration, and improper storage voids the guarantee.
          • Ice packs help moderate temperature in transit and are not expected to arrive frozen.
          • Some insects need time at room temperature before they become active, and many are hard to see without magnification.

          SHIPPING

          • Processing: 1 to 3 business days. Orders placed by 12:00 pm Pacific may process the same day, but this is not guaranteed.
          • Overnight: ships Monday to Thursday, and Friday for addresses with Saturday delivery, excluding holidays.
          • Second Day: ships Monday to Wednesday, and Thursday for addresses with Saturday delivery.
          • USPS: ships Monday to Friday.
          • We do not ship to PO boxes.

          Some products are harvested on set days, and we may hold shipments during extreme weather to protect product quality. We will contact you if your order is delayed significantly.

          CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS

          Please contact us within 30 minutes of placing your order to change or cancel it.

          RETURNS AND REPLACEMENTS

          Beneficial insects and other perishable products cannot be returned; they are covered by the Quality Guarantee above. Unopened garden supplies and tools can be returned within 30 days. Full details are in our Refund and Return Policy.

          Replacements are not available for an incorrect shipping address, storage or use instructions not followed, or packages left uncollected after delivery.