Green Lacewing Preferred Food: aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, leafhopper nymphs, moth eggs, scale, thrips, and whiteflies.
Green lacewing eggs provide the best value among the beneficial insects that ARBICO offers. Once hatched, the larvae are voracious predators used to control a wide range of soft-bodied pest insects. Green lacewing are ideal for building a sustainable population within your growing area for continued control. Lacewings are preferred to ladybugs in many climates due to their ability to survive a larger temperature and humidity range while controlling many of the same pests.
Optimal Temperatures: 67-90°F, RH >30%
Life Cycle & Behavior: Lacewing eggs hatch within 3-10 days of receipt depending on temperature and humidity in the release area. Once hatched, lacewing larvae feed for 2-3 weeks on a variety of soft-bodied insects. Larvae are recognizable by their prominent mandibles (mouthparts), alligator-like appearance and pale coloration with dark markings. The larvae molt as they grow and mature through 3 instar stages. Pupation occurs in silken cocoons on the undersides of leaves or under loose bark. Green lacewing will overwinter in the pupal stage in cooler climates. Adults emerge from the cocoons with large veined ("lacy") wings ready to mate and lay more eggs. Adult green lacewings feed on pollen, nectar and honeydew while aiding in pollination. The complete life cycle lasts roughly 30 days.
Release Rates: For best results, release Green Lacewing early in the season when pest numbers are low. Make a minimum of three releases.
In gardens and greenhouses, release eggs at approximately 1,000 eggs per 2,000 sq. ft.
For single shipments of less than 5,000 eggs
For farms release 5,000 to 50,000 per acre depending upon infestation.