How to Use Ladybirds (Adalia bipunctata Larvae)
Posted by Mr Middleton on 29th May 2026
How to Use Ladybirds (Adalia bipunctata Larvae)
Important Information Before Release
Your Ladybird larvae are living insects and should be released as soon as possible after arrival. If immediate release is not possible, store them in a cool place (8–10°C) for no longer than 24–48 hours.
For best results:
- Release when temperatures are consistently above 8–10°C.
- Choose a calm, dry day.
- Release during the early morning or evening when conditions are cooler.
- Do not release during heavy rain, strong winds, or intense midday sunshine.
- Avoid using chemical pesticides for at least two weeks before and after release, as these may harm the larvae.
Where to Release Ladybird Larvae
Ladybird larvae should be released directly onto plants that are already infested with aphids (greenfly), blackfly, scale insects, or other soft-bodied pests.
Ideal locations include:
- Roses
- Fruit trees
- Vegetable crops
- Greenhouses
- Ornamental shrubs
- Herb gardens
The larvae need a food source immediately after release, so placing them directly onto affected plants is essential.
How to Release the Larvae
- Inspect your garden and identify plants with visible aphid infestations.
- Gently open the container close to the affected plants.
- Carefully distribute the larvae amongst several infested plants rather than placing them all in one location.
- Place the larvae directly onto leaves, stems, or branches where aphids are present.
- Avoid handling the larvae unnecessarily.
A pack of 100 larvae is suitable for treating multiple plants or a moderate-sized infestation.
What Happens Next?
Once released, the larvae begin feeding immediately.
During the next 2–3 weeks:
- Each larva will consume large numbers of aphids and other pests.
- The larvae will grow through several stages.
- They will eventually attach themselves to a leaf or stem and form a pupa.
- After pupation, adult two-spot ladybirds will emerge.
The adult ladybirds will continue feeding on aphids and may remain in your garden to breed, helping establish a natural and self-sustaining pest control population.
Maximising Success
To encourage ladybirds to remain in your garden:
- Plant nectar-rich flowers such as marigolds, calendula, cosmos, and alyssum.
- Provide a variety of flowering plants throughout the season.
- Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides.
- Leave some sheltered areas where adult ladybirds can overwinter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the larvae damage my plants?
No. Ladybird larvae feed exclusively on aphids, scale insects, and other soft-bodied pests. They do not damage plants.
How quickly will I see results?
Most customers notice a reduction in aphid numbers within a few days, with significant improvements usually visible within 1–3 weeks.
Can I release them in a greenhouse?
Yes. Greenhouses provide an excellent environment for ladybird larvae and often produce particularly effective results.
Will all the larvae survive?
As with any living biological control, survival rates vary depending on weather, food availability, predators, and environmental conditions. Releasing larvae directly onto infested plants gives the highest chance of success.
Delivery Information
This is a live product and is subject to seasonal availability. As the larvae are produced in batches, delivery may take up to 21 days depending on where your order falls within the production cycle.
Thank you for choosing a natural, environmentally friendly solution to garden pest control.
