8
3. Check viability of predators before releases.

4. Release preda ors at the rate of one per plant at the appropriate prey
 density, and hen the plants have two to four new leaves.
5. Allow the pre ators 4 to 6 days to become established before applying
 pesticides.
6. Apply a low ra e of Vendex if necessary to reduce high spider mite
 densities.
7. Continue monitoring the spider mite : predator complex for 6 to 8 weeks
 to obtain infor ation on the predators' effectiveness.

 I ortant Points to Consider Each Month
 October. Inspe t nursery stock for the presence of spider mites before
 planting, check ach shipment, as they may have different histories.
 Consult the supp ier of the nursery stock on the pesticide treatment
 history. Start eekly monitoring of the spider mite populations as soon
 as the plants ar established.

 November. Contin e to monitor spider mites, as well as insects, and
 release predators when the spider mite density is sufficient and the
 plants have two t four new leaves. Apply a low rate of Vendex to
 reduce unexpected high densities of spider mites. Control insects in an
 early stage of de elopment by applying B. thuringiensis for worm control
 or diazinon for a hid control.

 December. Continue spider mite monitoring, make decisions for releasing
 predaceous mites w en spider mite density has reached the indicated
 levels and when th plants have two to four new leaves. Avoid
 applications of pe ticides immediately prior to, and soon after
 releasing the preda ors. Start monitoring the predators soon after
 their release. Con ult you supplier of the predators about specific
 insecticide suscept ability or tolerance.

 January. Continue monitoring spider mite and predatory mite
 development. Releases may be considered on fields where spider mites
 approach the indicate d levels. Predators released in December should
 have dispersed unifo mly and show the beginning of reducing spider mite
 density. If needed, a corrective spray with a low rate of Vendex can be
 applied if spider mi e populations become to high.

 February March April. Monitoring spider mites and predatory mites
 can be reduced to onc in 10 14 days. If needed, diazinon or
 malathion may be appl ed for the control of aphids or fruit flies.