Dicyphus hesperus – Predatory Bug for Whitefly Control
Orders due by Wednesday 10am for shipment the following week.
Description
Dicyphus hesperus is a whitefly predatory bug and is best suited for use with vegetable crops as it will also feed on plants. It is similar to Macrolophus caliginous which is being used in Europe. This beneficial insect is most successful when used along with other biocontrol agents.
Mullein banker plants (Verbascum thapsus) can be used to support Dicyphus as part of an organic IPM program. Start mullein seeds 4-5 months before the main crops are planted in the greenhouse.
Dicyphus are active at lower temperatures 54F and do not have a diapause phase. Since Dicyphus is also a plant feeder it should not be used on crops which can be damaged. An example is Gerbera crops where Dicyphus may feed on the developing flower buds and cause distortion and spoilage of the flowers.
Feeds on greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) and tobacco whitefly (Bemisia tobaci). Dicyphus will also feed on two-spotted spider mite, thrips and moth eggs, but will not control these pests.
Application Rates
Release as soon as whiteflies are found early in the season at a rate of 0.25-0.5 per 10 sq. ft.
Repeat in 2-3 weeks. Release batches of 100 Dicyphus together where whitefly are present or supplement with moth eggs for a secondary food source, as these natural enemies need a consistent food source to reproduce.
Order deadline: Orders must be received by 10am on Wednesday PT for shipment the following week. Questions? Call us at (360) 656-6680. See order deadlines & shipping and release instructions for details.
