Release method
How to release ladybugs.
A six-step procedure used by California growers for the most successful release outcomes.
Direct answer
How do I release ladybugs?
Release at dusk, when temperatures are 55–80°F, after lightly misting the plants. Open the container at the base of plants showing pest pressure and let the ladybugs crawl up. Stage your release over 5–7 days for best results.
- Time of day: dusk or after sunset
- Temperature: 55–80°F
- Mist plants lightly before release
- Release at the base of the foliage
- Stage releases over 5–7 days
- Keep remaining ladybugs refrigerated
The six-step procedure
- 01
Refrigerate until ready
Keep your ladybugs refrigerated at 35–45°F in their ventilated container until release. Do not freeze.
- 02
Wait for dusk
Release at dusk or after sunset. Cooler temperatures and lower light reduce dispersal so ladybugs stay where you place them.
- 03
Lightly mist the plants
Mist foliage and soil before release. Ladybugs drink the droplets and tend to settle where moisture and food are available.
- 04
Open the container at the base of the plants
Open the container at the base of plants showing pest pressure. Let the ladybugs crawl up the stems onto the foliage themselves.
- 05
Stage your release
Release about 30–50% of the container now and refrigerate the rest. Re-release every 2–3 days for a 5–7 day staggered release.
- 06
Scout weekly
Walk the garden or grow weekly. Aphid colonies should thin within 3–7 days under good conditions. Re-release as needed.
Common mistakes to avoid
- × Releasing in mid-day heat
- × Releasing onto dry plants
- × Releasing all of them at once
- × Releasing onto plants recently treated with insecticide
- × Leaving the container in direct sun before release
- × Releasing below 50°F or above 90°F