Swirski-Mite

Swirski-Mite (Amblyseius swirskii) — Predatory Mite for Thrips, Whiteflies & Pest Mites
Swirski-Mite bottles contain active life stages of Amblyseius swirskii, a proven predatory mite for controlling thrips, whiteflies, and pest mites. These predators actively disperse across plant surfaces to consume pest eggs and larvae, delivering fast, targeted control in any growing environment. Swirski-Mite is chemical-free, IPM-compatible, and safe for use in greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, indoor plants including houseplants and more.

• Immediate release: Tap-to-apply format enables direct coverage of hotspots
• High predator density: 50,000 predatory mites per bottle for concentrated curative action
• Efficient dispersal: Mites actively target thrips, whitefly and mite populations by crawling across plant surfaces after release
  

Swirski-Mite targets:

• Young larvae of various thrips species
• Whitefly eggs and larvae 
• Broad mites (Polyphagotarsonemus latus)
• Russet mites (Aculops lycopersici)
• Two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae)

*For dedicated spider mite control, we recommend Spical or Spidex
*For dedicated broad and russet mite control, we recommend Anso-Mite

When to Use Swirski-Mite Bottles
Use wherever thrips, whiteflies, or pest mites are present or expected. Effective across all growing environments.

Recommended for:
• Active thrips, whitefly or mite, hotspots, and/or widespread pressure
• Prevention as well as curative control in high-pressure zones
• Thrips and other problems harboring deep in plant tissue, folds, or crevices—areas sprays often miss
• Growers seeking long-term prevention & control

How It Works
Mode of Action: Mites pierce and consume pest eggs and larvae using their mouthparts
Behavior: Mites disperse actively across plant surfaces, seeking out pest stages in leaf folds, stems, and undersides
Visual Effect: Pest populations decline as mites establish and feed
Application Method: Rotate bottle gently before use to distribute mites evenly. Tap bottle to release mites directly onto plant surfaces.

Feeding Rates:
Nymphs and adults consume 5–10 pest eggs or larvae per day under optimal conditions
Feeding life stages last 14–20 days, depending on temperature and prey availability

Lifecycle of Amblyseius swirskii
Egg Stage
• 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 pest eggs and 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

Diapause Behavior
Swirskii does not enter diapause in response to short day-lengths or low temperatures. This allows for use late into fall.

Release Rates & Placement

Application Notes:

• Rotate bottle gently before use to distribute mites evenly through the carrier
• Tap bottle to release mites directly onto plant surfaces
• Focus on hotspots and areas with visible pest activity
• For tailored recommendations on application rates, reach out via livechat in the bottom right corner of the site

Best Working Conditions

• Temperature: Active from 59°F to 97°F; optimal range 68–90°F
• Reproduction Peak: Fastest at 86°F
• Humidity: Optimal at 63% RH or higher; sensitive below 60% RH

Compatibility Guidance:

• Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application
• Good to combine with all beneficials besides other Type III generalist predatory mites (Neoseiulus cucumeris, Amblydromalus limonicus, Transeius montdorensis, Amblyseius andersoni)
• For pesticide/chemical spray compatibility details, check our Natural Enemies - Chemical Compatibility Table and Beneficial Insect & Pesticide Compatibility Table

Product Specifications
Pack Size: 50,000 mites
Carrier: Bran
Presentation: 1L bottle
Appearance: Mites are tan and fast-moving; bran carrier allows for a visible measure of dosing

Storage & Handling
Store in the dark at 50–59°F
Use within 18 hours of receipt
Do not refrigerate

Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Swirskii-Mite supports sustainable growing practices by replacing chemical sprays with natural predators. This reduces pesticide runoff, protects pollinators, and maintains ecological balance across growing environments. The bran carrier is biodegradable, and the bulk bottle format minimizes packaging waste. Whether you're growing ornamentals, vegetables, or houseplants, Swirskii-Mite offers a sustainable, scaleable way to manage pest pressure.

What to Expect

• Swirskii-Mite bottles begin working immediately after application
• Thrips, whiteflies, and pest mites are controlled as predators feed
• Results build quickly in hotspots and continue as the predators spread through the plants
• Reapply based on scouting observations to maintain control and prevent resurgence

Recommended IPM Pairings

• Horiver Yellow sticky traps for monitoring flying pests
• Limonica or Orius spp. for layered thrips control
• Isarid Mycoinsecticide for knockdown in high-pressure zones
• Hanging Baskets for even distribution in dense canopies
• Swirskii-Mite Ulti-Mite sachets for preventative coverage
• Spical or Spidex for comprehensive control of mite species

FAQs

Does Swirskii-Mite bulk contain adult mites?
Yes—bottles contain a mix of life stages, including adults and juveniles.

Is Swirskii-Mite 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?
Feeding starts immediately. Control builds quickly as predators move through affected areas.

Can I use this on tomatoes?
Swirskii is not recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for Swirskii to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Swirskii in any set-up, however Swirskii’s performance in tomatoes is subject to the specific species of tomato and its maturity. For tomatoes we recommend using Thripex sachets to control thrips and Spidex to control spider mites. These predators can navigate mature tomato plants.