Spical PLUS Sachets
-
Product Details
Spical PLUS Sachets (Neoseiulus californicus) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control
Spical PLUS contains all life stages of Neoseiulus californicus, a Type II generalist predatory mite used for biological control of spider mites and other mite species. These sachets are made from standard paper material, which limits their durability in fluctuating humidity or temperature. They are best suited for stable indoor environments with controlled climates. Spical PLUS is chemical-free, IPM-compatible, and safe for use in greenhouses, propagation zones, and indoor plants including ornamentals, flowers, and houseplants.
Use For
Spical PLUS targets all life stages—eggs, nymphs, and adults—of many mite species, including:Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
European red mite (Panonychus ulmi)
Citrus red mite (Panonychus citri)
Other common greenhouse and field spider mitesAs a Type II generalist, 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, Anso-Mite is a more aggressive predator
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 spider mites, broad mites, russet mites, and tarsonemids
• Nymphs and adults consume 5–10 prey items per day under optimal conditions
• Feeding life stages last 14–20 days, depending on temperature and prey availability
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 1–2 days
Nymph Stage
• Begins feeding on spider mites, tarsonemids, and thrips larvae
• Highly mobile and effective in early suppression
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 perforationsBest 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)
Storage & Handling
• Store at 63–68°F in the dark
• Provide ventilation to prevent CO₂ buildup
• Use within 1–2 days of receipt
• Do not refrigerate
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
• Horiver Yellow sticky traps for monitoring flying pests
• 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
FAQs
Do Spical PLUS sachets contain adult mites?
Yes—sachets contain a mix of life stages, including adults, juveniles, and eggs.Is Spical PLUS safe for indoor plants?
Yes—completely safe for people, pets, and plants, making it ideal for use in enclosed environments like homes, offices, herb gardens, and interiorscapes.How soon will I see results?
Spical PLUS sachets begin releasing predatory mites within a few days of placement, providing early protection before spider mite populations can establish. When used preventatively, mites intercept eggs and young stages 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 for a quick boost—helping reduce pest pressure as predators feed and disperse.Can I use this on tomatoes?
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.What is the difference between PLUS and Ulti-Mite sachets?
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.Questions about Spical PLUS Sachets?
Click the livechat button in the bottom right or contact us today!
-
Product Uses
- Use For:
- Two-Spotted Spider Mites, Thrips, White Fly, Broad and Russet Mites
-
Shipping Info
For delivery mid- week, order must be placed by 12 pm on Thursday. For delivery on Friday, order must be placed by 12 pm on Monday of the same week.
Please allow 1 business day to receive a pdf order confirmation with your expected shipping date.
