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Aphytis melinus Controls California Red Scale, Ivy Scale, San Jose Scale & Other Hard-Bodied Scale Insects.
NATURAL PEST CONTROL FOR:
California Red Scale | Ivy Scale | Oleander Scale | San Jose Scale | Walnut Scale | Dictyospermum Scale | & More
PRODUCT TYPE:
Parasitoid (Aphytis melinus)
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
SPECIALIZED SCALE CONTROL
Aphytis melinus parasitoids provide targeted, chemical-free control of scale insects. As a specialized parasitoid optimized for hard-bodied scales, particularly California red scale, Aphytis melinus is renowned for its effectiveness in scale control across greenhouses, ornamental crops, and citrus operations.
HOW THIS PEST CONTROL WORKS
When deployed, females locate scale insects and lay eggs beneath the protective waxy coating of the scales. The parasitized scale insect becomes a parasitoid-filled "mummy"—a desiccated shell from which new parasitic wasps emerge. The parasitization process takes approximately 21-31 days from wasp release to emergence of new generations (4-7 day egg incubation + 10-14 day larval development + 7-10 day pupal development). Within this timeline, you'll observe successful scale parasitization and gradual decline in scale populations as multiple wasp generations establish control.
RELEASE RATES:
1 insects per sq. ft., weekly when scale is active
1,000-4,000 insects per acre, weekly, 1-3 times
Temperature Range: 50-95°F
RELEASE INSTRUCTIONS:
- TIME YOUR RELEASE: Early morning, evening, or when grow lights are off. Avoid midday heat and direct sunlight.
- PREPARE PLANTS: Lightly mist foliage before release. Moisture helps create a viable habitat.
- APPLICATION: Gently tap the lid to dislodge parasitoids from the lid/rim of the container and onto the foliage. Place container into the tree for full introduction.
- MONITOR: Monitor infested areas. If you're still seeing active scale after one week, release a second introduction.
STORAGE:
For best results, introduce immediately upon receipt. Do not store adults.
