Parasitic wasp for aphid control in greenhouse and garden
Aphidius matricariae is a highly effective parasitic wasp used in integrated pest management (IPM) programs to control Myzus persicae (green peach aphid), Phorodon cannabis (cannabis aphid), Aphis gossypii (the cotton/melon aphid) and more. This beneficial insect is ideal for greenhouses, indoor cannabis grows, and outdoor crop production where chemical-free aphid control is essential.
Why Choose Aphidius matricariae for Aphid Control?
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Outstanding host-searching ability — locates aphid colonies even at very low population densities
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High reproductive capacity — each female parasitizes 200–300 aphids and lays ~100 eggs in her lifetime
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Year-round use — not affected by short-day induced diapause, making it reliable in all seasons
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IPM compatible — works alongside other biological control agents such as Aphidoletes aphidimyza and Chrysoperla species
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Biological control and safe — harmless to humans, pets, and plants
How Aphidius matricariae Works
Female wasps locate aphids and insert a single egg inside the host. The larva develops internally, eventually causing the aphid to swell into a characteristic golden-brown "mummy." The adult wasp emerges by cutting a round exit hole in the mummy, ready to parasitize more aphids. This natural biological cycle provides ongoing, self-sustaining aphid suppression in your growing environment.
Application Rates
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Preventive introductions: 0.025 per sq ft, weekly
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Light curative: 0.1 per sq ft weekly — minimum 3 applications
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Heavy infestations: 0.2 per sq ft weekly — minimum 6 applications; use release boxes near aphid hotspots
Instructions for Use
- Introduce preventively when aphid populations are low for best establishment
- Make at least two releases one week apart to establish overlapping generations
- When 10% of aphids are mummies, population collapse is imminent (Ramakers, 1989)
- Remove sticky traps before releasing Aphidius
- Open the vial in your grow space and leave it inverted to allow continued emergence from mummies.
- In gardens, reduce heavy aphid populations with a strong water spray before releasing
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Important: A. matricariae does not parasitize all aphid species (e.g., potato aphid) — confirm aphid identification if mummies are not forming
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Temperature: 64–72°F (18–22°C) optimum conditions
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Humidity: 60–80% relative humidity
- Hyperparasites may reduce effectiveness in late summer outdoor releases
Resources & Technical Information
Shop Other Aphidius Parasitic Wasp Species
Orders for Aphidius matricariae must be received by Noon on Thurs PT for shipment the following week. Missed the deadline? Call us at (360) 656-6680 — we'll help you find a solution.
