Lacewings: Aphid Lions for Natural Pest Control

Lacewing Life Cycle

• ~4 weeks: egg → larva → pupa → adult.
• Eggs hatch 4–5 days. Larvae: alligator-like, large jaws, brown/red stripes, rough skin. "Aphid lions"—eat aphids, leafhoppers, mites, mealybugs, thrips.
• 3 larval instars in weeks.

Egg Identification

Adults: lacy green wings, bottle-green body. Eggs: tiny black, on fine filaments on leaves—appear floating. Females lay up to 200. Don't remove!

Habitat & Attraction

Found in aphid-infested crops: crucifers, nightshades, leafy greens, alfalfa, asparagus, fruit. Adults seek nectar/pollen (blooming plants), honeydew, sugar sources.

Purchasing & Release

• Release at ≥70°F (21°C).
• Rate: 1 larva per 50 prey (slow crops) or 1 per 10 pests (fast crops).
• Orchards/rows: consistent release every 7–14 days (up to 30,000 eggs).
• Home gardens: fraction of that.

Safe, natural, non-toxic control.