TARGET PEST: Mealybugs, including citrus mealybug, long-tailed mealybug, black scale, cottony cushion scale and more.
FOR YOUR FILES: Cryptolaemus Tech Sheet
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Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is a natural enemy of mealybugs for interior plantscapes as well as outdoors. They will not survive sub-freezing temperatures. Adult beetles are dark brown with orange heads and tails, 1/6th of an inch long. Larvae are alligator shaped, up to 1/2" long and covered with white waxy hairs that resemble a mealybug. Adults and young larvae prefer to eat mealybug eggs, but older larvae and adults will feed on all stages of mealybugs. If food is scarce this beneficial insect will also eat soft scale and aphids. Cryptolaemus are less effective on long tailed mealybug because this species lacks the cottony masses required for Cryptolaemus egg laying.
- For Mealybug control use Low rates of 0.2 - 0.4 per sq. ft. or High rates of 1 - 1.2 per sq. ft. Several releases may be necessary to establish this mealybug predator.
- Upon receipt keep Cryptolaemus out of direct light and release as soon as possible. Walk through the grow area and allow the insects to escape while gently tapping them out of the container onto leaves. Avoid wearing bright clothing while releasing or they will end up on you instead of your plants. These mealybug predators can fly and will cover large areas in search of food.
For out-of-state customers: a new & cheaper shipping service available for this product! Please contact info@soundhorticulture.com.
Orders for Cryptolaemus montrouzieri must be received by noon on Friday for shipment the following week. If the deadline is past, please call us and we will help you find a solution ASAP. (360) 656-6680
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Learn about release instructions for beneficial insects.
