Encarsia-System - the cornerstone of whitefly control
How does Encarsia-System control whiteflies?
- Targeted whitefly control – Encarsia formosa parasitises whitefly larvae and provides effective control of greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), tobacco whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) and cabbage whitefly (Aleyrodes proletella).
- Dual mode of action – besides parasitising whitefly larvae, the parasitic wasp also kills additional larvae through host feeding, accelerating population reduction.
- Ideal for preventative control – Encarsia-System performs best when introduced early, before whitefly populations build up.
- Effective at lower temperatures – remains highly active from an average greenhouse temperature of 18°C (64°F), making it suitable for early-season introductions.
- Perfect for IPM programmes – combine Encarsia-System with Eretmocerus-System for stronger and more sustainable whitefly control.
When should you introduce Encarsia-System?
- Start preventatively – introduce Encarsia-System from the beginning of the crop or as soon as the first whitefly larvae are detected.
- Increase release rates when pest pressure rises – adapt the release rate according to the whitefly population.
- Focus on hotspots – increase release rates in and around infested areas when local outbreaks occur.
- Repeat weekly – weekly introductions help establish a stable parasitoid population and provide long-term control.
How do you release Encarsia-System?
- Hang the cards or distribute the pupae – spread the product evenly throughout the crop while avoiding direct sunlight.
- Protect the pupae – handle the pupae carefully and apply them to a dry surface within the crop.
- Ensure even distribution – distribute the cards or loose pupae uniformly across the crop for the best results.
- Combine when needed – use Encarsia-System together with Eretmocerus-System to strengthen whitefly control.
Under which conditions should you use Encarsia-System?
- Optimum activity from 18°C (64°F) – an average greenhouse temperature of at least 18°C (64°F) is recommended for the best performance.
- Avoid high temperatures – temperatures above 30°C (86°F) significantly reduce the lifespan of the parasitoids.
- Avoid heavy honeydew deposits – large whitefly colonies producing excessive honeydew can reduce the mobility of the parasitoids.
- Monitor performance – parasitised whitefly pupae turn black, and the emergence of adult parasitoids can be recognised by a perfectly round exit hole.