BeneficialLace bugs

Lacewings for azalea lace bugs

Chrysoperla carnea · green lacewing larvae

Against lace bugs

Lacewing larvae readily eat azalea lace bug nymphs but seldom take the adults, so a release only works if it coincides with the first spring hatch. Released lacewings have reduced infestations on azaleas and rhododendrons, and lacewing egg cards paired with water sprays suppressed two overlapping generations in a specimen garden — effective, but laborious. On a single shrub, part shade and a layered planting that shelters resident predators may do as much.

Rate2–20 /m² per release, weekly (general supplier rate; no lace-bug-specific rate was found)

TimingAt the spring hatch of first-generation nymphs, repeated through that generation

Temperature20–28 °C best; works above a 12 °C average

macro · green lacewing on lace bugs

The pestLace bugsTingidae (lead species: Stephanitis pyrioides, azalea lace bug)Bleached, silvery-stippled azalea leaves with black varnish-like spots underneathFull pest profile →

Before you order

Larvae released onto aphid hot spots and other soft-bodied pests; the adults do not hunt and most fly off. How it works, how to tell it has established and the supplier list are on the full Chrysoperla carnea profile.

Release calculator

How many do I need?

Area and infestation level in; quantity, cost and a weekly schedule out. Open the calculator →

Will it survive my spray?

Pesticide sensitivity

Check anything applied in the last month before releasing. Check a product →

Other controls for lace bugs

Orius insidiosusPredatory bug · 1–2 /m² per release; up to 10 /m² on hot spots