BeneficialTwo-spotted spider mite

Predatory mite for two-spotted spider mite

Neoseiulus californicus · predatory mite
Against two-spotted spider mite

The slower, hardier partner to Phytoseiulus persimilis. UConn says it acts more slowly but eats a wider range of prey and survives longer when spider mites are scarce, living on broad and cyclamen mites, thrips and pollen. That makes it the one to keep low numbers low, and it can go in before an outbreak. Cornell says it works best released early in the season, while mites are still few, and that it will not persist on pollen alone. It copes with conditions that stop persimilis. Koppert gives 13–32 °C (55–90 °F) and Cornell 15–35 °C (59–95 °F). On humidity the sources differ: Cornell's optimum is 65–75% and it tolerates down to about 40%, while Koppert says it is sensitive below 60%. Biobest pairs it with persimilis for heavy infestations, and UConn says the two can be released together. Koppert says not to use it in tomato.

Rate25–125 /m² per release, weekly, at least five times (Koppert); 5 /m² every two weeks as prevention and 100–200 /m² on hot spots (Biobest data sheet); indoors 1–4 per plant, every two weeks, 2–3 times (Arbico)
TimingEarly, while spider mites are still few: Koppert says start as soon as the first mites are found, and Biobest releases it from the start of flowering, before any are seen
Temperature13–35 °C best by source; active from about 8–10 °C

Before you order

Slower spider mite predator that survives on pollen and other small prey, so it can go in before mites build up. How it works, how to tell it has established and the supplier list are on the full Neoseiulus californicus profile.

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Other controls for two-spotted spider mite

  • Phytoseiulus persimilisPredatory mite · 2–50 /m² per release (Koppert); 100+ /m² on hot spots (Biobest data sheet)
  • Amblyseius andersoniPredatory mite · 20–100 /m² (Biobest); 50–250 /m² weekly (Koppert)
  • Feltiella acarisugaPredatory midge · 0.25–25 /m² per release, at least 3 weekly releases (Koppert)
  • Stethorus punctillumPredatory lady beetle · 100–200 adults per hot spot, or 1–4 per 10 sq ft, weekly for 3–4 weeks (Arbico; its low rate is every two weeks)