Spical PLUS Sachets (Neoseiulus californicus) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control
Spical PLUS contains Neoseiulus californicus, a proven predatory mite for controlling spider mites & mite species. These sachets are made from standard paper material; they are best suited for stable environments with controlled climates. Spical PLUS is chemical-free and safe for use in any growing environment including greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, indoor plants including houseplants and more.
Use For
Spical Ulti-Mite targets all life stages—eggs, nymphs, and adults—of many mite species, including:
Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae and other varieties)
European red mite (Panonychus ulmi and other varieties)
Citrus red mite (Panonychus citri and other varieties)
Other common greenhouse and field spider mites
Flat Mites aka False Spider Mites (Tenuipalpidae Varieties)
As a Type II predatory mite, Neoseiulus californicus can also feed on:
Tarsonemid mites (e.g., broad mites, Polyphagotarsonemus latus)
Eriophyid mites (e.g., russet mites, Aculops lycopersici)
*For dedicated broad and russet mite control, we recommend Anso-Mite
When to Use Spical PLUS
Use Spical PLUS wherever spider mites or other mite species are expected or present in stable indoor environments.
Recommended for:
• Preventative coverage to stop spider mites and related mites before establishment
• Early-stage pest presence
• Hotspots requiring sustained biological control over 4–6 weeks
• Plants with dense foliage or layered canopy structures where pests hide in leaf folds and undersides
• IPM programs seeking long-term prevention & control
Spical PLUS sachets release mites gradually over 4–6 weeks. For curative use, pair with Spidex bottles for direct hotspot suppression.
How It Works
• Mode of Action: Mites pierce prey with their mouthparts and consume internal contents
• Behavior: Mites reproduce inside the sachet and disperse into the crop over several weeks
• Visual Effect: Pest populations decline as predators establish
Feeding Rates:
Nymphs and adults feed on eggs, larvae, and adult stages of mite species, preferred target is spider mites
Consumption varies by prey stage and conditions, typically 5-15 items per day under optimal conditions
Lifecycle of Neoseiulus californicus
Egg Stage
• Oblong, transparent white eggs laid on leaf surfaces
• Hatch in 2–3 days under optimal conditions
Larval Stage
• Non-feeding
• Lasts ~.5 - 2 days
Nymphal Stages
• Actively hunts and consumes prey
• Highly mobile and effective in early suppression
• Lasts ~2 - 6 days
Adult Stage
• Actively hunts and consumes prey
• Lifespan ~20 days
• Capable of laying 2–3 eggs per day under optimal conditions
Release Rates & Placement
| Pressure Level | Rate per Plant | Repeat Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Preventative | 1 sachet | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Curative | 1–2 sachets (paired with bottles) | Every 3 weeks |
Application Notes:
• Adjust rates based on crop type, climate, and pest density
• Fast-growing crops may benefit from frequent releases
• Dense foliage crops may require higher rates due to hiding spots
• Begin releases preventively or at first signs of spider mites or other target pests
• Hang sachets in sheltered locations, away from direct sunlight or heating pipes
• Hold sachets by the cardboard strip to avoid damaging mites
• Sachets already have an exit hole—do not open them
• Open the shipping box in or near the plants and separate sachets by tearing along perforations
Best Working Conditions
• Temperature: Effective between 55–90°F
• Humidity: Sensitive below 60% RH
• Reproduction Peak: Fastest at 86°F
Compatibility Guidance
• Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application
• Compatible with Phytoseiulus persimilis and Feltiella acarisuga
• Avoid broad-spectrum pesticides
• For compatibility concerns, check our compatibility charts here: Natural Enemies - Chemical Compatibility and here: Beneficial Insect & Pesticide Compatibility Table
Product Specifications
Pack Size: 100 or 500 sachets
Presentation: Sachets in cardboard box
Carrier: Bran
Appearance: Mites are beige and fast-moving; eggs are transparent white
Material: Paper-based sachet (not humidity-tolerant)
What to Expect
• Gradual & continuous predator emergence over 4–6 weeks
• Suppression of spider mites, broad mites, russet mites, and thrips larvae
• Best results when integrated with scouting and compatible biocontrols
• Reapply based on pest pressure and crop growth stage
Recommended IPM Pairings
• Phytoseiulus persimilis (Spidex) for hotspot suppression
• Isarid Mycoinsecticide for knockdown in high-pressure zones
• Spical bottles for curative coverage
• Feltiella acarisuga for layered spider mite control
Frequently Asked Questions
Long-term storage, i.e. more than 48 hours, is not recommended. Apply promptly after receipt. Our products are shipped fresh for immediate use to ensure maximum performance. If needed, keep in a cool, dark, dry place for up to 1–2 days; longer holding reduces effectiveness and quality.
Yes - sachets contain a mix of life stages, including adults, juveniles, and eggs.
Yes - completely safe for people, pets, and plants, making it ideal for use in enclosed environments like homes, offices, herb gardens, and interiorscapes.
Sachets are designed for prevention and steady maintenance. You can also use them alongside bottles when you need ongoing control during an active issue. Once the sachet is placed, predatory mites begin feeding right away, and their numbers increase over the next 4–6 weeks as new generations emerge from the sachet. With new generations developing steadily over time, sachets deliver consistent preventative coverage across the area. Spical PLUS sachets provide early protection before spider mite populations can establish. When used preventatively, mites intercept mites and spider mites to keep pressure low throughout the 4–6 week release period. If spider mites are already present, sachets contribute to curative control, especially when paired with bottle products.
Spical is not recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for Spical to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Spical in any set-up, however Spical’s performance in tomatoes is subject to the specific species of tomato and its maturity. For tomatoes we recommend using Spidex for spider mite control and Thripex for control of other mite species.
Ulti-Mite sachets are made from compostable film and tolerate humidity and temperature fluctuations. PLUS sachets are made from paper and should only be used in stable environments. Ulti-Mite is the preferred choice in most scenarios.