Limonica
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Product Details
Limonica (Amblydromalus limonicus) — Predatory Mite for Thrips & Whiteflies
Limonica bottles contain active life stages of Amblydromalus limonicus, a proven predatory mite for controlling thrips and whitefly. These predatory mites crawl across plant surfaces to consume pest eggs and larvae, delivering fast, targeted control in any growing environment. Limonica 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.
Immediate release: Tap-to-apply format enables direct coverage of hotspots
High predator density: 12,500 predatory mites per bottle for concentrated curative action
Efficient dispersal: Mites actively target thrips and whitefly populations by crawling across plant surfaces after release
Limonica Targets
Thrips larvae (first and second stages)
Whitefly eggs and larvae (Trialeurodes vaporariorum, Bemisia tabaci)
When to Use Limonica
Use wherever thrips or whiteflies are present or expected. Effective across all growing environments.
Recommended for:Active thrips or whitefly hotspots and/or widespread pressure
Prevention as well as curative control in high-pressure zones
Thrips and whitefly 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: Predatory mites pierce and consume pest eggs and larvae using their mouthparts. This kills pests before they mature and reproduce.
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 Amblydromalus limonicus
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 immediately; 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 Definition Rate per 10 sq. ft Repeat Interval Preventative Pests not yet visible; risk present due to past issues or seasonal timing 50–100 mites Every 2–3 weeks Low Pressure Isolated pest spots or early-stage colonies; minimal damage 100–150 mites Every 2 weeks or until under control Medium Pressure Multiple plants affected; moderate honeydew, leaf stippling, or stress signs 150–200 mites Weekly or until under control High Pressure Widespread pest activity; heavy honeydew, leaf stippling, visible damage, curled leaves 200–250 mites Weekly or twice weekly as needed
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.
Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Active from 55°F to 77°F; not effective above 86°F.
Humidity: Optimal at 70% RH or higher; sensitive below 65% RH.
Compatibility Guidance
Can be combined with Orius spp. and whitefly parasitoids for layered control.
Do not combine with other generalist predatory mites such as A. swirskii, N. cucumeris, T. montdorensis, or A. andersoni.
Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application.
For pesticide/chemical spray compatibility details, check our Chemical Compatibility page.
Product Specifications
Pack Size: 12,500 mites
Carrier: Bran and plant-based material
Presentation: 1L bottle
Appearance: Mites are beige and fast-moving; carrier allows for visible dosing
What to Expect
Limonica begins working immediately after application.
Thrips and whiteflies are controlled as predators feed.
Results build quickly in hotspots and continue as predators spread through the plants.
Reapply based on scouting observations to maintain control and prevent resurgence.
Recommended IPM Pairings
Thripor (minute pirate bugs): Highly effective for thrips adults and larvae, providing layered control alongside Limonica.
Enermix: Target whitefly pupae and complement Limonica’s egg and larval suppression.
Horiver Yellow sticky traps: Essential for monitoring flying thrips and whiteflies, enabling early detection and intervention.
Isarid Mycoinsecticide: For knockdown in high-pressure zones where thrips or whiteflies are widespread.
Swirskii-Mite sachets: For preventative coverage in plants where humidity and temperature fluctuate, ensuring continuous protection.
FAQs
Can I store this for later?
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.Does Limonica bulk contain adult mites?
Yes—bottles contain a mix of life stages, including adults and juveniles.
Is Limonica 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?
Limonica is not recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for Limonica to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Limonica in any set-up, however Limonica's performance in tomatoes is subject to the specific species of tomato and its maturity. For tomatoes, use Thripex sachets to control thrips and Spidex to control spider mites.Why choose beneficial predators?
Beneficial predators provide a sustainable, long-term approach to pest control:- No resistance issues: Pests cannot develop resistance to natural predators, eliminating the constant cycle of switching chemical products.
- Easy to scale: As plants grow, predator introductions can be increased without overhauling the program, ensuring consistent results and minimal disruptions.
- Cleaner and safer: Replacing chemical sprays reduces pesticide runoff, protects pollinators, and promotes a more natural growing system.
- Superior quality: At Natural Enemies, we are the insectary. Products are held to the highest standards, ensuring vigorous, effective predators that perform reliably in real-world growing conditions.
Questions about Limonica?
Click the livechat button in the bottom right or contact us today!
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Product Uses
- Use for:
- Thrips, Whitefly
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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.
