This is our most effective control for aphids in enclosed spaces and greenhouses and is favoured by commercial growers.
Aphidius are the most popular, and least expensive way of controlling common aphids, which is why they are the first choice for the commercial grower. Aphidius colemani tend to tackle the smaller aphids such as Myzus persicae and Aphis gossypii - for larger aphids there are Aphidius ervi.
Sold in tubes of 500. Orders placed by 10am Monday will be despatched later in the week.
Further information
How much do I need?
When to use
How to use
Aphidius are tiny insects which lay their eggs inside aphids, the aphid is then paralysed and the new aphidius hatches from the body leaving behind a dead aphid “mummy”.
The insects are supplied ready to hatch out in their “mummy” form. You will probably not be able to see the mummies without a glass or microscope, but if it is warm enough you will see some adult aphidius flying out of the tube when you open it. They look like very small flying ants, about 2-4mm long.
The tube will contain the mummies, some inert carrier for protection and often a few ready hatched flying adults.
1 predator per 2 square metres. Increase to 5 predators per square metre if you already have a bit of an infestation.
Use at the very first signs of aphids being present or as a preventative measure on aphid prove plants. Work better above 15°C.
Do not open the bottle until you are near the plants as hatched adults may fly out! Open the bottle and gently sprinkle on to the plants then leave the tube on the soil so that any remaining aphidius can come out. Alternatively, if you are treating a very small area, you can just lay the tube on its side with the top open and let the insects fly out themselves when hatched.
It doesn't matter if they fall off the leaves. However, try to avoid sprinkling onto an area which may get disturbed.
The quicker you release them the more success you will have so don’t store.
Aphidius are most effective when temperatures are constantly above 15°C.