BeneficialChilli thrips
Swirski mite for chilli thrips
Amblyseius swirskii · predatory mite
Against chilli thrips
In laboratory tests the Swirski mite ate 4.6–6.3 chilli thrips larvae a day but few adults (Schoeller 2020), so it has to be in place early. In a two-year Florida strawberry field trial its performance was variable (Lahiri 2024). Spinetoram residues harm it badly, while Cordyceps javanica did least harm (Busuulwa 2024). Like all foliar predatory mites here, it is not for tomato.
Rate25–100 /m² per release; 100–300 /m² on hot spots
TimingUnder glass, from planting, before new growth bronzes
Temperature20–32 °C best; not effective below 18 °C (Biobest: 15 °C)
macro · swirski mite on chilli thrips
The pestChilli thripsScirtothrips dorsalisBronzed, curled new leaves; scarred buds and fruitFull pest profile →Before you order
Sprinkled onto the leaves or hung in slow-release sachets in warm crops, where it feeds on pollen as well as prey and can build up ahead of the pest. How it works, how to tell it has established and the supplier list are on the full Amblyseius swirskii profile.
Release calculator
How many do I need?
Area and infestation level in; quantity, cost and a weekly schedule out. Open the calculator →
Other controls for chilli thrips
- Orius insidiosusPredatory bug · 1–2 /m² per release; up to 10 /m² on hot spots
- Metarhizium brunneum strain F52Microbial — insect-killing fungus · Label rate for the liquid formulation; check the label for foliar use