How to release HypoLiv (Stratiolaelaps scimitus)

What’s in the HypoLiv bottle?

1. Predator: Stratiolaelaps scimitus 

2. Carrier: Peat moss and vermiculite 

3. Food: Feeder mite

How to release?

• For best results avoid watering for 1-2 hours before and after release. Use open structure soil that is moist and rich with organic matter.
• Gently rotate the tube to evenly mix the mites in the carrying material.
• Disperse mite mixture as small piles on the soil or rockwool slabs and any other place where soil pests can reside.
• Leave the empty tube near the plants for 24 hours to allow any remaining mites to crawl out.

Can you store HypoLiv (Stratiolaelaps scimitus)?

We recommend releasing predatory mites immediately upon arrival.

If storage is necessary HypoLiv can be stored for 3-5 days in a cool (10°C - 15°C) dark place. Lay the bottle horizontally and avoid any contact with direct sunlight. Storing can lead to deterioration of the product.

How to spot the mites before releasing?

Due to low temps during shipment predatory mites tends to huddle in the middle of the tube. If at first you don’t see any movement, allow the shipment to come to room temperature.

Once at room temp, gently rotate the tube to evenly mix the material. Pour 1-2 tbs on a white piece of paper and you’ll see Stratiolaelaps scimitus crawling from the pile. You may need a 10x lens to see the mites, they are about 0.5mm in size. 

How to promote establishment of Stratiolaelaps scimitus?

Use open structure soil that’s rich in organic matter such as algae, plant debris, etc. The organic matter will serve as a food source for Stratiolaelaps when there is a shortage of prey. Keep soil moist and warm. Avoid overwatering as this can create drowning conditions in the soil. Very cold temperatures can hinder the predators' ability to reproduce.

How to spot Stratiolaelaps scimitus after releasing?

Scouting is tough once the mite has been released in the soil. To scout take samples of the soil or growing medium and inspect with a 10x lens. Monitoring population of fungus gnat larvae can also be a good indicator of how well Stratiolaelaps is establishing.

How often should you be reordering?

Every 5-6 months. 

FAQs

Can I water my plants after releasing Stratiolaelaps scimitus?

Stratiolaelaps thrives in moist soil, just make sure not to overwater the soil as this can create drowning conditions for the mites.

Can I use other predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus, Amblyseius swirskii, Neoseiulus cucumeris) with Hypoaspis miles?

Yes, using these predators together will help achieve control faster.