Cryptolaemus montrouzieri - Mealybug Control
TARGET PESTS
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEED
Mealybug destroyer. Attracted to and often lay eggs on the mealybugs' waxy secretions and egg cases.
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is a member of the Coccinellid Beetle family, commonly known as ladybugs, and recognized by their distinctive round, dome shape. These Mealybug Destroyers have a dark brown body with orange head and tail, and are about 4mm in size. Both the adults and larvae target Mealybugs at all life stages. Eggs are laid near colonies of mealybugs and hatch within 5-7 days. The young larvae emerge as small, white, and fuzzy - resembling mealybugs. After 14-20 days and undergoing several molts, the larvae enter the pupal stage and emerge as adults with a lifespan of 4-6 weeks. Both adult beetles and larvae continue to feed on mealybugs until temperatures become unfavorable. Cryptolaemus montrouzieri cannot endure sub-freezing temperatures, and it’s necessary to reintroduce them after low or freezing temperatures.
CROPS
CROPS
Strawberries
Blueberries
Cucumbers
Eggplants
Roses
Sweet Peppers
Ornamentals
Table Grapes
Vineyards
Tomatoes
Citrus
USAGES
Greenhouses
Field Crops
Gardens
INTRODUCTION RATES
Light infestation: 1-2 beetles per sq. ft., as needed.
Heavy infestation: 2-4 beetles per sq. ft.
Temperature Range: 60-95°F
APPLICATION
Introduce in the morning, evening, or when temperatures are cooler.
Disperse beetles onto infested plants. Leave open container in place for 24 hours to allow any remaining beetles to be introduced.
PRO TIPS
- Attracted to and often lay eggs on the mealybugs' waxy secretions and egg cases.
- For best results, introduce in early spring. Cryptolaemus montrouzieri cannot survive in cold temperatures (below 50°F), and therefor need to be reintroduced where the winter temperatures are too low.
- Packaging contains paper strips for shipment as well as honey for food source.
- Cryptolaemus are not as effective on mealybugs that do not lay egg masses, such as long-tailed mealybugs.
- Treat area against ants. Ants tend to mealybugs and some scale insects for honeydew, and in the process protect the pests from the beneficial insect.
-
Pesticides, even-wetting agents, and spreader-stickers may adversely affect beneficial insect survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic.
-
Depending on the size and type of plants, the number and type of pests, other predator and parasite populations, and temperature, the frequency of releases may be affected.
STORAGE
For best results, introduce immediately upon receipt. If storage is necessary, store at 50-56°F for no longer than 18 hours. Store out of direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
DISCLAIMER
Store Policies
Please review our store policies below on Shipping & Processing, Live Delivery Guarantee, and Returns/Replacements. By placing your order, you are agreeing to these policies. Thank you!
Changes/Cancellations:
Please note that our Live Delivery Guarantee pertains specifically to the condition of the insects at the time of delivery and does not cover instances where insects may perish at a later stage. We will exercise our discretion to assess whether your situation falls within the time frame qualifying for our policy. Factors such as the insect species, hatching time, temperature conditions, and other relevant considerations will be taken into account to determine the applicability of the guarantee. For non-hatching insects, you must contact us within 48 hours of delivery in order to be considered for the guarantee. Replacements will only be processed/shipped on Wednesdays & Thursdays.
Upon receiving your package from NaturesGoodGuys, we highly recommend opening it immediately and checking for a sticker indicating the need for refrigeration. It's crucial to carefully read the instructions included for specific storage information to ensure the well-being of your beneficial insects. We are not responsible for replacements due to incorrect storage methods.
One important thing to note is that we do not expect ice packs to remain frozen or cold upon delivery. Ice packs serve as a temporary measure to help maintain moisture and temperatures during transit.Please keep in mind that some insects may require time to adjust and recover from transit before they become active. If you don't observe immediate movement upon opening the package, this doesn't necessarily mean they are not viable. Give them a little time, and monitor for signs of activity as they settle into their new environment. Most of our insects are difficult to see without magnification.
Some species/quantities do not have multiple shipping methods to choose from because they require short transit time for viability. For those who have concerns about the well-being of their insects during transit, we suggest selecting overnight shipping. This ensures that your beneficial insects spend minimal time in transit, reducing stress and maximizing their chances of arriving in optimal condition.
1. Customer input the incorrect shipping information: If the customer contacts our help line BEFORE their order has been processed to correct an address error we will be able to perform this change for you so that you can receive your order.