USE: Aphytis melinus is a parasite that is effective on several different kinds of scale, including: red scale, yellow scale, oleander scale, and dictyospermum scale. They are commonly used on citrus trees. COVERAGE: Use one parasite per 20 to 30 scales, or 5 — 100 per plant, or 10,000 per acre. For best results, use 3 or 4 releases at 2 weeks intervals. RELEASE: Release in temperatures above 50 and below 100 degrees. The parasites typically fly about 6 trees or plants in a day. Release them by opening the container and allowing the adult parasites to fly out as you walk, tapping the container every sixth tree or plant. LIFE CYCLE: The female Aphytis melinus lays from 1 to 5 eggs in the host scale, depending on size. The eggs hatch and feed on the scale, which kills it. In about 12 days they become adults, and the females begin parasitizing more scales. The adults live about 26 days. GENERAL INFORMATION: Aphytis melinus has been used for scale control since 1956 when it was imported from India and Pakistan. If possible, it’s a good idea to wash down the infested plants and trees before release. This removes some of the honeydew secretions, making it easier for the parasites. IMPORTANT NOTICE-PLEASE READ!!!: Most live beneficial insect, snail and worm orders received before Thursday noon, are processed on the following Friday and shipped out the following Monday or Tuesday via UPS. After that time, they are sent in the next week's batch. They are not sent from this location, they are sent from the rearing facilities. Rush orders cannot be accepted for live insects. Expect a 10-14 day delivery for most shipments. If you do not live in the Western U.S., it is recommended you choose UPS 3 day delivery or better. IF YOU LIVE EAST OF THE ROCKIES AND HAVE NOT CHOSEN UPS 3 DAY OR FASTER, WE WILL AUTOMATICALLY SEND IT THAT WAY AND YOU WILL BE CHARGED EXTRA FOR THAT METHOD. There will still be the same 1-2 week wait for them to be sent out, but they will go by the recommended method. Multiple orders which include live insects with other merchandise such as toys and candy, may have additional shipping and handling fees added to cover the additional cost of two shipments. The merchandise (other than the live animals) will be sent ground, the live insects will be sent 3 day or better. Live insects may only be shipped within the Continental United States (may not be shipped to Hawaii) unless you provide an import permit from your Agriculture Dept.. |
| (310) 318-1389 We offer secure online ordering. RealCoolToys.com has a $25.00 minimum purchase requirement for phone orders. PLEASE READ our "Answers to your questions" page: realcooltoys.com/info for our usual shipping methods, process times and return policy. E-MAIL : realcooltoys@kathyscritters.com
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