using ladybugs properly?

[mendo local]

What is the best way to disperse ladybugs on your plants? I put them on the soil hoping they would move up but they never did. Out of 1500 only two made it up, ughh. Anyone have a good technique? Thanks all

 

[Bubby]

My prediction is eventually they'll get hungry and go on the hunt.. :evil:

Are you doing this indoors? How do you keep them from escaping the growroom?

 

[mendo local]

Yes indoors. there is no escape from my room!!!!!!lol. well most of them ended up dying, there is a few left scavenging around.
Watched a few get attacked by the mites. how depressing when your predator bugs get eaten by there prey.

One thing you do need to do to them is spray them with sugar water. helps to glus there wings down so they dont fly for a few days.

 

[upinarms]

Are you trying to get rid of Spider Mites?

 

[mendo local]

Are you trying to get rid of Spider Mites?

yes

 

[Bubby]

So.. are they working or what?

 

[upinarms]

Are the ladybugs Stethorus punctillum if not you can read about them here, www.naturescontrol.com//spidermitedestroyers.html

They're kind of expensive but they look promising and it was fun to read

 

[Hick]

I have read, that "Lady bugs" aren't the best choice for mite preds. There are predator mites specificly designed/chosen for their voracious mite appetite.
"Phytoseiulus persimilis" is the most common, I believe.
Here are a cpl links for "Beneficials"....
Here..
and..
Here...

 

[upinarms]

I agree with you there, the problem with ladybugs is that they fly and your recommendations are way cheaper. Good post Hick!!!!