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Ladybug Release Instructions
The ladybug (Hippodamia convergens) is probably the best known beneficial insect available. Unlike most beneficials, ladybugs are gathered and prepared (removal of debris) for shipment all over the United States. They feed mainly on aphids (40-50 per day) but will also attack a wide variety of other soft-bodied pests, including mites, leafhoppers and mealybugs. They will attack all stages of these pests; egg, larval and adult.
Ladybugs will arrive in a cloth bag ready for release. If it is not convenient to make an immediate release, you should refrigerate the closed bag(s). Do not refrigerate for more than a day or so. Remember: The longer they are refrigerated the higher the mortality will be. DO NOT FREEZE. To release ladybugs, simply water your garden and shake them out close to pest populations. DO NOT release them during the warm part of the day when the sun is shining. With sufficient food available, the ladybugs will likely stay in the area. However, it is not uncommon for them to take flight if not enough food is present. You may want to supplement with other food sources such as commercially available insect food -- our Ladybug & Lacewing Food, for example.
Note: Ants in the area should be controlled, since they protect honeydew producing insects like aphids.
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