Aphidius colemani / ervi / matricariae / Aphelinus – Natural Aphid Control Solution

Looking for a broad-spectrum biological solution to aphid infestations? This mixed-species blend offers powerful aphid control by combining four proven parasitoid wasps: Aphidius colemani, Aphidius ervi, Aphidius matricariae, and Aphelinus abdominalis. This blend targets a wide range of aphid species and provides reliable protection in greenhouses, indoor grows, and outdoor gardens, offering a natural, chemical-free alternative to traditional pest control.

Product Options and Targets

Each 750-count package includes:

• 250 Aphidius colemani – Effective against small aphids like Green Peach Aphid (Myzus persicae) and Melon Aphid (Aphis gossypii).

• 125 Aphidius ervi – Targets larger aphids such as Potato Aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and Foxglove Aphid (Aulacorthum solani).

• 125 Aphelinus abdominalis – Known for controlling slower-reproducing aphid species like the Glasshouse Potato Aphid.

• 250 Aphidius matricariae – Ideal for cereal aphids and aphid species commonly found in ornamental plants.

Together, this mix covers an estimated 25% of all aphid species, offering growers a comprehensive, natural solution to aphid control without chemicals.

How It Works

This mix combines four parasitoid wasp species to target aphid populations at different stages of their lifecycle. The female wasps lay their eggs inside aphid nymphs, and as the larvae grow, they feed on the aphids from the inside, ultimately turning them into mummified shells. Once mature, the adult wasps emerge and continue the cycle, parasitizing additional aphids. This natural process ensures effective and long-lasting aphid control.

Targets These Species

• Aphidius colemani: Effective against small aphids like Green Peach Aphid (Myzus persicae) and Melon Aphid (Aphis gossypii).

• Aphidius ervi: Targets larger aphids such as Potato Aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and Foxglove Aphid (Aulacorthum solani).

• Aphelinus abdominalis: Ideal for controlling slower-reproducing aphid species like the Glasshouse Potato Aphid.

• Aphidius matricariae: Effective against cereal aphids and aphid species found in ornamentals.

Ideal Conditions

• Temperature: Best between 64°F–75°F.

• Humidity: Ideal at 80% relative humidity.

• Environment: Suitable for both greenhouses and outdoor gardens. Not affected by photoperiod, making it perfect for year-round use in controlled environments.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. Do not refrigerate.

Application Instructions

1. Store the Product: If aphid “mummies” have not emerged, store them at 64–80°F in a humid, shaded location. Check twice daily for up to 7 days for hatching.

2. Release the Wasps: Once the mummies begin to emerge, release them at sundown. Open the container in the crop and walk among the plants to release the wasps, allowing them to fly out naturally.

3. Concentrate the Release: Focus the release around heavily infested areas. You can speed up the release by gently tapping the bottle.

4. After Release: Do not store the emerged adult wasps for more than 18 hours. Store at 45–55°F in a humid environment (refrigerator recommended). Avoid storing the pupae for more than 72 hours.

Release Rates

• For Aphelinus abdominalis:

  • Preventative: 2–5 wasps per 100 square feet, weekly

  • Hot Spots: 10–25 wasps per 100 square feet, weekly

• For Aphidius colemani, Aphidius ervi, and their Mixes:

  • Preventative: 2–5 wasps per 100 square feet, weekly

  • Hot Spots: 10–25 wasps per 100 square feet, weekly

Where to Use

• Greenhouses

• Indoor Grow Rooms

• Outdoor Gardens

• Nurseries

• Orchards & Vineyards

• Hydroponics & Aquaponics

• Container Plants

Storage

• Shelf Life: Use within 18 hours of receipt.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. Do not refrigerate.

Quick Tips

• Use as a curative tool, not as a preventative.

• Apply at the first sign of aphid activity, before webbing becomes widespread.

• Avoid sticky traps for the first few days after release to prevent capturing newly emerged adults.

• Pair with other beneficial insects like Chrysoperla and Aphidoletes for enhanced control.

• Do not release alongside Amblyseius cucumeris to avoid food competition.