Spidex Vital PLUS - 250 Mites per Sachet

Spidex Vital PLUS Sachets (Phytoseiulus persimilis) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control
Spidex Vital PLUS sachets contain Phytoseiulus persimilis, a proven predatory mite for controlling spider mites. PLUS sachets are designed for long-term, preventative coverage. Predatory mites reproduce inside the sachet and disperse gradually over several weeks. Spidex Vital 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
Spidex Vital PLUS targets all life stages—eggs, nymphs, and adults—of spider mites, including:
Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
Other Tetranychus spp. (except Tetranychus evansi)

Phytoseiulus persimilis is a specialist predator and does not feed on other mites, thrips, or pollen. It cannot survive on alternative food sources.

When to Use Spidex Vital PLUS Sachets
Use wherever spider mites are expected or present. Spidex is sage for all plant types and growing situations.

Recommended for:
Preventative coverage to stop spider mites before establishment
Early-stage spider mite presence
Hotspots requiring sustained biological control over several weeks
Plants with dense foliage or layered canopy structures where pests hide in leaf folds and undersides
Growers seeking long-term prevention & control

Curative Note:
Pair sachets with Spidex Vital bottles or use Spidex Boost for curative control. In the case of an active problem, Ulti-Mite or Plus sachets work in tandem with bottle formulations to provide long-lasting clean up and prevention against population resurgence. 

How It Works
Mode of Action: Mites pierce and consume spider mites using their mouthparts
Behavior: Mites reproduce inside the sachet and disperse gradually over several weeks, sachets produce multiple consecutive generations of predatory mites
Visual Effect: Pest populations decline as mites establish and feed
Release Duration: Several weeks depending on humidity and conditions
Sachet Type: PLUS paper-based sachet; best in stable environments

Feeding Rates:
Nymphs and adults feed exclusively on spider mite eggs, larvae, and nymphs
Each nymph/adult consumes ~5–20 spider mites (including eggs, larvae and adult mites) per day under optimal conditions
Feeding life stages last approximately 20 days

Lifecycle of Phytoseiulus persimilis
Egg Stage
Oval, pale orange to pink, laid near spider mite colonies.
Hatch in 2–3 days under optimal conditions
Larval Stage
Non-feeding
Duration ~1–2 days
Nymphal Stages
Eight-legged, actively feeding on spider mite eggs, larvae, and nymphs.
Duration ~3–5 days at optimal temperatures
Adult Stage
Pear-shaped, ~0.5 mm long
Actively hunts and consumes prey
Duration ~20 days
Capable of laying 5–10 eggs per day under optimal conditions

Release Rates & Placement

Placement Tips:
Hang sachets in sheltered spots, away from direct sun or heat
Hold by cardboard strip to avoid damage
Do not open sachets—exit hole is pre-made
Open shipping box near plants and tear sachets along perforations

Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Active from 55°F to 81°F; optimal range 68–77°F
Reproduction Peak: Fastest at 77°F
Humidity: Optimal at 70% RH or higher

Compatibility Guidance
Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application
For pesticide/chemical compatibility details, check our Pesticide Compatibility page.

Product Specifications
Species: Phytoseiulus persimilis
Pack Size: 100 or 250 sachets
Mite Count: 250 predatory mites
Sachet Type: PLUS (paper-based)
Carrier: Wood chips
Appearance: Sachets with release hole; mites are translucent white upon arrival and turn orange-red after feeding

Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Spidex Vital PLUS sachets support sustainable growing practices by replacing chemical sprays with natural predators. PLUS sachets reduce pesticide runoff, protect pollinators, and maintain ecological balance across growing environments.

What to Expect
Our Spidex is specially engineered—Persimilis predatory mites typically start out red-orange, but ours arrive to you translucent and develop their signature red-orange color after feeding on spider mite colonies.This color change is a clear visual sign that they’re actively hunting and protecting your crop.

• Spidex Vital Plus sachets release predators gradually after placement
• Spider mites are controlled as predators feed
• Predators disperse through foliage for several weeks
• Reapply as needed based on scouting observations to maintain control and prevent resurgence

Recommended IPM Pairings
Horiver Yellow sticky traps for flying pest monitoring
Spical (Neoseiulus californicus) for increased spider mite control
Isarid Mycoinsecticide for reducing spider mite population in high-pressure zones
Spidex Vital bottle(s) for hotspot coverage
Spidend (Feltiella acarisuga) for increased spider mite control in large areas with hard-to-reach spaces

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 Spidex Vital PLUS contain adult mites?
Yes—sachets contain a mix of life stages, including adults, juveniles and eggs.

Is Spidex Vital 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?
Feeding starts immediately. Control builds quickly as predators move through affected areas.

Can I use this on tomatoes?
Yes, Spidex is recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for some predatory mites to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Spidex in any set-up & Spidex is able to navigate tomatoes. For thrips management in tomatoes, we recommend Thripex.

Does Spidex Vital PLUS feed on other pests?
No—Phytoseiulus persimilis is a specialist predator and feeds only on 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.