Trichogramma Wasps for Pest Control
Ron Swope, WVU Extension (RSWOPE@WVNVAXA.WVNET.EDU)
Sun, 26 Feb 1995 15:37:08 -0500 (EST)
Does anyone have experience using Trichogramma wasps for
pest control in home gardens? I am specifically interested in how
to determine the proper time for release of Trichogramma pretiosum.
As I understand it, T. pretiosum larvae feed on pest eggs while the
adults only feed on nectar and therefore are not involved in the
pest control function. Are T. pretiosum shipped as eggs which then
eclose and begin feeding, or do they arrive as adults which then lay
eggs?
The firm I ordered from said they would ship at the proper
time for my area, but since I live in West Virginia, which has quite
a range of climates and conditions within a very small geographical
area, I would like to know how to determine release dates specifically
for my site and for other specific sites around the state.
Ron Swope (304) 366-3331
Extension Agent RSWOPE@WVNVMS.WVNET.EDU
P.O. Box 1628
Fairmont, WV 26555-1628