How to Use Aphid Parasitoids for Natural Pest Control

Insecticides are available to aid in the control of aphids, but another great option is parasitoids. This biological weapon eliminates the need to introduce toxic chemicals into your garden and can beat your aphid problem with the tools Mother Nature intended.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Treat your plants as soon as you notice an aphid infestation. The earlier you catch the aphids, the more likely aphid parasitoids will be effective.

2. Choose the stage in which you want to purchase your aphid parasitoids. A popular choice is to receive them in the pupae or aphid mummy phase, when they're getting ready to emerge.

3. Store your parasitoid aphid mummies in a humid environment between 64 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for no longer then 72 hours. Adults should stay in their container no longer than 18 hours at 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Watch for the emergence of the wasps from the mummy. At this point you're ready to begin dispersing them among your plants at sunset the day the wasps emerge. If you purchase adult wasps, release them same day you receive them, also at sunset.

5. Concentrate on the areas of heavy aphid infestation or where aphids are likely to appear.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that aphid parasitoids are small stingless wasps, so any insect deterrent they come in contact with will most likely affect them.