Encarsia formosa – Beneficial Parasitic Wasps for Greenhouse Whitefly Control

Biological Control for Greenhouse Whitefly

Encarsia formosa is a tiny beneficial parasitic wasp used to manage greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum). Introduce it early in a biological pest management program, before whitefly populations become difficult to manage.

Female wasps lay eggs inside immature whiteflies. The developing wasp larvae feed within their hosts, killing them as they develop. Adult females also feed on whitefly nymphs, providing another way to reduce pest populations.

What to Look For

Parasitized greenhouse whitefly pupae turn black. After development, adult wasps emerge through small, round holes and search for more whitefly hosts.

Release and Handling

• Release as soon as possible after receipt.
• Hang release cards within the crop, away from direct sunlight.
• Handle cards carefully without touching the attached parasitized whitefly pupae.
• Follow the supplier's instructions for release rates and repeat applications based on crop conditions and whitefly pressure.
• Check pesticide compatibility before release. Residual effects vary by pesticide, so a fixed waiting period may not be suitable.
• If immediate release is not possible, follow the supplier's storage temperature and maximum holding-time instructions.

Pack Options

• BW-EH10: 100 cards with 100 per card; 10,000 total.
• BW-EH15: 150 cards with 100 per card; 15,000 total.