Ladybugs - Aphid Control

Chemical Free Way to Control Aphids

Ladybugs, the most commonly known of all beneficial insects, are not only effective but are economically important. They are gathered from their natural habitat in the California Sierra Mountain foothills.  They feed on may different soft bodied insects with aphids being their main food source. During the larval period the ladybug resembles a tiny, black, six-legged alligator with orange spots.

As a larva it will gorge on about 400 aphids. After 3 or 4 weeks it attaches to a leaf or twig and enters the pupal stage. In another week the pupal skin splits and a hungry young adult emerges to eat another 5,000 aphids. Up to 1,500 tiny yellow eggs may be deposited in clusters of 10 to 50 in just a few weeks. In good years several generations may be produced. The Ladybug's huge appetite and reproductive capacity allow it to rapidly clean out its prey. Ladybugs do best when released at dusk.

Release Rates: 1/2 pint covers 2,500 square feet; pint covers 5,000 square feet; quart covers 15,000 square feet.

What Are Aphids?

Aphids have always been a problem for the plant enthusiast and commercial grower. However, as time has passed, aphid infestations have become a more prominent problem, especially in the horticulture sector. As a result of their enormous reproductive capability, aphids can cause severe damage to a myriad of plants. In addition their ever-increasing resistance to pesticides greatly enhances their destructive capability.

An aphid population consists of viviparous females. Young aphids are born and immediately start feeding on plant sap. They grow quickly and molt four times before they become adults. The resulting characteristic white skins left behind betray the presence of aphids. Winged adults develop at high densities, enabling rapid spreading to other plants from hot spot areas.

Direct feeding on plant sap, excretion of honeydew, and the injection of toxic substances cause crop damage. Plant growth is halted and leaves become curled. Honeydew dirties fruit and leaves, and is also a medium for the growth of fungus. Aphids can also transmit and spread viruses.

Orders received on Thursday will ship the following week. 

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