Are store-bought ladybugs reliable?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.While ladybugs bought from the store are a fast way to eliminate aphids (the ladybugs only need to eat a few to satiate them), they often deplete about 85% within 48 hours. I've released thousands of them only to find them all huddled on my windowsills. If you want them to stay, you have to mimic their habitat. Native ladybugs adjust better and provide longer-lasting control without the cost of constant re-application.
Release Protocols
- Release at dusk when temperatures drop below 70°F (21°C)
- Spray plants with water first to encourage staying
- Place ladybugs directly on aphid colonies
- Avoid handling them with bare hands
Habitat Enhancements
- Install sugar water feeders (1:10 sugar-to-water ratio)
- Plant yarrow or dill nearby for egg-laying sites
- Provide shallow water sources with pebbles
- Avoid pesticides 2 weeks pre/post-release
*Timing matters*, release ladybugs during early infestations. I pair them with *lacewing larvae* for faster results. If you leave leaf litter in your garden to overwinter, native species like *Hippodamia convergens* will be able to establish colonies. Stay away from hybrids, as these often are not locally adapted.
Monitoring
- Check for eggs under leaves weekly
- Track aphid reductions every 3 days
- Replace sugar water every 48 hours
- Remove ant colonies protecting aphids
Read the full article: Natural Aphid Control: 12 Safe Solutions for Plants
