Hi, I want to try predaceous mites against thrips and other types of inscects this spring/summer. I will appreciate if someone suggests where can I buy predaceous mites in Canada, Montreal (at the store or online). Is there anyone that actually used them with a good result? Thanks
Try Koppert (www.koppert.com) or Biobest (www.biobest.ca). Contact them and they will help you contact a rep in your area. We've tried predatory mites with good results for thrips (Amblyseius cucumeris). The only issue we encountered was that the sachets contain buckwheat that the rodents really love, so they ended up chewing open all of the bags with the contents spilling out. Now we opt for a container of the mites in a different type of carrier and we sprinkle it directly on the plant or put it in paper muffin cups.
Hi GreenhouseGirls, thanks for the information! One of my friends said to me that predaceous mites should be used only in greenhouse or plantation. I have a very small collection of plants in my house, also two dogs, two cats and a perrot. My cosin have a baby and I babysit him most of the time in my house. Is it safe to use predacious mites in the house? What could be the side effects if any? I tried to google information about safety of mites for humans and anymals, but couldn't really find anything. My guess is because they are safe and my friend is wrong. Please, let me know if you find anything. Thanks
I don't think mites will work in your house. Not because it's a danger to humans or pets, but because I don't think the conditions are right. If you're trying to keep thrips away from your houseplants, buy a pack of blue sticky traps and hang them on the plants, out of the reach of children and pets. The traps are extremely sticky and you wouldn't want one getting stuck to one of your pets.
