Swirski-Mite

Instructions for Swirskii Bulk Bags & Tubes

• Keep containers horizontal and cool until use.
• Do not expose to direct sunlight at any time.
• Immediately before opening, gently rotate the container to distribute mites evenly throughout the carrier material.
• Open each container in the crop when ready to use.
• DO NOT PUT DIRECTLY ONTO FLOWERING PLANTS
• Do not use for tomatoes
• Hanging Baskets can help to ensure all mites go directly onto plants
• Additional Application Instructions 

Storage and Transport

• Keep out of direct intense sunlight.
• Transport and store at 50-59°F and >65% humidity.
• Use within 18 hours of receipt.
• Do not refrigerate.

To see the impact of pesticides on natural enemies please visit, Chemical Side Effects Guide 

Amblyseius swirskii is primarily known as a thrips predator that is ideal for warmer climates as it is native to the Mediterranean. It feeds not only on thrips, but also broad mites, russet mites, as well as whitefly eggs. Optimal results are seen when adults in 1 liter containers are used in conjunction with slow release sachets. Feedback from growers for broad mites has been very positive.

How It Works

Ideal for use on protected crops in warm conditions, such as peppers, cucumbers, gerbera and eggplant. Do not use for tomatoes. It can be used on non-protected crops, provided that average daytime temperatures exceed 68°F/20°C.

Establishment will be fastest on crops with ample pollen, such as pepper crops, as the pollen provides an alternative, high quality food source for the mites. Crops without pollen will have slower establishment, but using sachets that continually release mites over several weeks will improve results.

Best used early in crop/pest cycle to prevent whitefly and thrips buildup since it does not feed on adult stages.

Is active at 68°F/20°C, but performance increases at higher temperatures.

Technical Notes

• Activity range: 59°F to 97°F. Mites are active above and below these temps, but they cannot reproduce and their performance is compromised.
• Optimum range: 68°F to 90°F. Reproduction is fastest at 86°F.
• Optimum humidity: 63% RH
• Diapause: Swirskii does not undergo diapause

Interactions

Swirskii is known to feed on the eggs of Phytoseilus persimilis and Aphidoletes aphidimyza. Care and planning should be taken when placing these species into the same environment.

***For a more in-depth look at how to use this predator effectively, including detailed information on life-cycle and application rates,please visit this link.***