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
Aphidius matricariae Tech Sheet (PDF)
Shop Other Aphidius Parasitic Wasp Species
Order deadline: Orders must be received by noon on Thursday PT for shipment the following week. Questions? Call us at (360) 656-6680. See order deadlines & shipping and release instructions for details.
