Lady Beetles (Ladybugs)

A Gardener's Best Friends

The most common of all beneficial insects, these voracious predators feed on aphids, adelgids, chinch bugs, asparagus beetle larvae, thrips, alfalfa weevils, bean thrips, grape root worms, Colorado potato beetle larvae, whitefly, and mites, as well as many other soft-bodied insects and eggs. And they are cost-effective, too.

Ladybugs are shipped to you in the adult stage. Each adult consumes about 5,000 aphids. Within 8 to 10 days of release each female ladybug lays 10 to 50 eggs daily on the underside of leaves. Eggs are usually deposited near prey such as aphids, often in small clusters in protected sites. Larvae grow from about 1 mm to 5 to 6 mm in length and may wander up to 40 feet in search of prey. In 2 to 5 days the larvae emerge as dark alligator-like flightless creatures with orange spots. The larvae eat 50 to 60 aphids per day. After 21 days the larva attaches itself by the abdomen to a leaf or other surface to pupate and adults emerge in 2 to 8 days depending on the temperature, completing the cycle. Under ideal conditions (temperature 61°F to 82°F; ladybugs won't fly when 55°F or lower) several generations may be produced.

Ladybug Release Guidelines

•When Ladybugs arrive put the sack in a cool place (refrigerator) until late evening or early morning.
•Do not release the Ladybugs during the heat of the day or while the sun is shining.
•Ladybugs should be released when the plants have become partially enfoliated, which will provide coverage, and some pest insects are present, which will provide food.
•In order to achieve biological control of insects try to maintain a balance of a few pests for food and enough Ladybugs to keep them in check, being careful not to release to many Ladybugs at one time.
•Sprinkle or irrigate the area before releasing the Ladybugs so they will have a drink of water after their journey. The can also be watered by sprinkling the sack with water. Do not put wet bags in the refrigerator.
•Ladybugs should be released a few at a time twice a week during the season when leaves are young, tender and attractive to pest insects.
•Apply one (1) tablespoon on each shrub and a handful on each tree to keep them free from pest damage.
•For heavy infestation, release all the Ladybugs in the bag at one time. Storage: After application retie the bag and place in refrigerator until all Ladybugs are used.

Ladybugs may be stored in your refrigerator for up to two weeks. Do not freeze.

NOTE: Because ladybugs are collected in the wild, availability is subject to Nature's whims. Extra ladybugs are shipped with each order to account for mortality. Live animals must be shipped either FedEx next day air or USPS Priority so please select one of those shipping options when completing your order.