Reliable source for ladybugs?

[Duh_Vinci]

Hello all!

In Virgina, specifically in our microclimate - has been extremely humid. And for the first time I'm seeing a large infestation of aphids. Usually, few here and there, but never an issue to be concerned with. Not this time...

I've tried just about everything (from castile soap, to marigold tea to neem oil). Awful things just don't leave.

I want to order some ladybugs online. Any reliable source you can recommend for getting these to the east coast?

Regards,
D

[mdvpc]

Duh:

the problem with ladybugs is that they might not stick around-they tend to take off. If they do, they will wipe out your aphids. I use green lacewings, you buy them and they will definitely take care of the aphids. I buy them from a place in Tucson, cause its near to me. Ami posted about a company recently, so you may look at that thread.

[bluelytes]

DUH,
If you think they will survive the trip, (two days), I could probably find ya some. However, they will likely fly away, or eat and run. In my case, they did not stick around all that long, and were certainly gone before the aphids.

Best;
bluey

[Duh_Vinci]

Thank you both for your feedback!

Ladybugs - I've heard that application/release should be done at weekly intervals, for 3 weeks for effective control. Willing to try as long as the cost is not prohibitive.

Michael - sorry to bug you, I don't know much about the lacewings, can you educate me a little? Really don't want to use any spray that requires to wear a mask, gloves and goggles! Do you buy those as larvae or adults (ready to release)?

Also, can't find that thread where Ami posted, would you remember some of the key words so I can do the search?

Thank you again!

Regards,
D

[hasshoes]

I used Territorial seeds. The first time they came a lot of them were dead due to a hot UPS truck, so they replaced them for free. Mine stuck around, though I also bought "lady bug food." Don't know if I was just lucky or that had something to do with it.

I also bought lacewing eggs, but the were expensive and apparently never hatched- never saw one all summer.

[mdvpc]

arbico : http://www.arbico-organics.com/

ami's thread: i did a search and cant find it-sorry. but this is the supplier that he recommended: http://www.rinconvitova.com/

i buy eggs-dont expect to see the little guys once they hatch-they usually come out at night to eat the aphids.

here is info cut and pasted from arbico:


Green Lacewing Program - 1,000 eggs per shipment
Receive weekly shipments for severe infestations.
Email a Friend Write a Review
DESCRIPTION QTY PRICE
Green Lacewing Program - 1,000 eggs per shipment
SKU: 1110002


SHIPPING INCLUDED
$11.65


DESCRIPTION SHIPPING INFO REVIEWS
Preferred food: aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, leafhopper nymphs, caterpillar eggs, scales, thrips, and whiteflies.

Method of shipment: Green lacewing are shipped as eggs packed in bran.

Release rates: In gardens and greenhouses, release eggs at approximately 1,000 eggs/2500 sq. ft. Once the larvae emerge, they will feed for 1-3 weeks before they become adults. For farms release 5,000 to 50,000 per acre depending upon infestation.

The adults eat only honey, pollen, and nectar, which they need to reproduce. Repeated releases every 7-10 days will be most effective if the infestation is severe. It is recommended to release Green lacewing at the beginning of each season with a two week interval to establish a preventative colony.

Availability: year-round.

NOTE: You MUST order 3 or more shipments. The listed price includes the cost for 1,000 green lacewing eggs and the cost of shipping for every shipment ordered. The shipping on the web invoice will not be charged unless you have additional items shipping with the green lacewings.

Enter the number of shipments in the box below.

Price includes Priority Mail Shipping!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Good Bug Power Meal
SKU: 1133001-P
» View Options

Universal Release Box
SKU: 1555501
$1.00 Qty.

RECENTLY VIEWED

Green Lacewing Program - 1,000 eggs per shipment
$11.65

Green Lacewing Programs - Weekly Shipments
$11.65