Release guide

Release with confidence.

Timing, temperature, and placement matter. Follow these steps to give your beneficials the best chance to settle in and start working.

Release at dusk or after sunset. Cooler temperatures and lower light reduce dispersal.

Aim for 55–80°F. Avoid mid-day heat and freezing temperatures.

Lightly mist foliage before release. Ladybugs drink droplets and tend to stay nearby.

Open the container at the base of plants showing pest pressure so ladybugs walk up the foliage.

For moderate-to-heavy pressure, release a portion now and re-release every 2–3 days for 5–7 days.

Refrigerate at 35–45°F in the ventilated container. Use within 1–2 weeks.

Avoid mid-day releases, dry plants, recent pesticide applications, and freezing or hot conditions.

Many growers see aphid populations thin within 3–7 days. Continue scouting weekly.

Step-by-step

A simple release routine.

01
Refrigerate ladybugs in their ventilated container at 35–45°F until release night.
02
Late afternoon: lightly mist plants and soil where you’ll release.
03
At dusk, take the container outside (or into your greenhouse/grow).
04
Open it at the base of plants with pest pressure and let ladybugs walk up the foliage.
05
Release ~30–50% of the container now; refrigerate the rest for staggered releases over 5–7 days.
06
Scout weekly. Re-release as needed.

What time of day should I release ladybugs?+

Dusk or after sunset is best. Temperatures are cooler, light is lower, and ladybugs are less likely to fly off immediately.

What temperature is ideal?+

Aim for 55–80°F. Avoid releasing in mid-day heat or below freezing.

Should I mist my plants first?+

Yes — lightly. Ladybugs drink water droplets and tend to stay where moisture and food are available.

How should I store ladybugs before release?+

Keep them refrigerated at 35–45°F in their ventilated container. Plan to release within 1–2 weeks.

How many should I release at once?+

Stage your release. Use a portion at dusk, then re-release every few days for heavier infestations.

How long until I see results?+

Many growers see aphid colonies thin within 3–7 days when conditions are right. Continue scouting weekly.