Aphid Banker Plants: Establish Beneficial Insects Naturally

Continuous Source of Aphidius

Using an aphid banker plant system can minimize the need for frequent reapplications of the beneficial insect Aphidius colemani by supporting a continued source of predatory insects. The potted banker plants come infected with cereal aphids (bird cherry aphids) Rhopalosiphum padi, which do not affect most greenhouse plants. The banker plants become miniature rearing systems as Aphidius colemani are released and allowed to establish.

The cereal aphids become the parasite for the Aphidius “rearing station”. Over time, Aphidius parasitic populations become high enough to disperse into the horticultural crop, providing a continual source for this biocontrol agent. Aphid banker plants should be destroyed at the end of the season to avoid hyperparasitization. For use in IPM programs. 

Instructions for Use

You will need a minimum of 2 banker plants per acre. This organic pest control system is not harmful to people, pets or wildlife, shipped fresh and quality guaranteed. Arrives with approximately 2,000 cereal oat aphids. 

Further Resources

Aphid Banker Plants - UConn Extension

Aphid Banker Plant System for Greenhouse IPM - University of Vermont

Saving 'Bank' with Banker Plants - ONfloriculture

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