Encarline - 100 Card - 6000 Individuals

Whiteflies are among the most common and destructive pests in greenhouse environments, causing direct damage through feeding and spreading plant viruses. Encarline provides a highly targeted and sustainable solution for greenhouse whitefly control using the parasitoid wasp Encarsia formosa. This natural predator delivers effective suppression of Trialeurodes vaporariorum by parasitizing later-stage larvae and host-feeding on younger instars.

Designed for easy integration into greenhouse production systems, Encarline is a proven and reliable component of an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. With high emergence rates and visible activity in crops, it offers growers an efficient, residue-free alternative to chemical control methods.

How Encarline Works

Dual Action: Parasitism and Host Feeding

The adult female Encarsia formosa actively searches for whitefly larvae (also called scales) within the crop. Once located, she employs two effective methods of control:

• Parasitism: The wasp lays a single egg inside a third or fourth instar whitefly larva. When the egg hatches, the developing wasp larva consumes the whitefly from the inside, leading to the formation of a visible black parasitized scale.

• Host Feeding: In addition to parasitizing, the female wasp will also feed on younger larval stages. This feeding behavior helps suppress whitefly populations further and extends the lifespan and productivity of the wasp.

Each Encarsia female has the potential to kill more whiteflies through feeding than parasitism alone, making Encarline highly efficient in active infestations.

Lifecycle Timing and Environmental Suitability

• Ideal conditions: 20–25°C (68–77°F)

• Development time: Around 25 days from egg to adult at 21°C (70°F)

The wasps remain active within crops for several days after emergence, continually seeking new hosts. They perform best under moderate temperature ranges and are suitable for a variety of greenhouse-grown crops.

Best Uses for Encarline

Encarline is designed to target the greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), which commonly infests:

• Tomatoes

• Cucumbers

• Peppers

• Eggplants

• Ornamental crops

• Foliage plants

Its precise lifecycle synchronization with the pest, along with the combination of parasitic and host-feeding behaviors, makes Encarline suitable for use across different stages of crop development, including seedling to harvest.

Delivery System and Application

Innovative Card-Based Release Method

Encarline is supplied as parasitized whitefly scales embedded into specially designed cards. These cards are easy to distribute and provide excellent protection for developing pupae during transit.

• Each card yields at least 60 adult female wasps.

• Pupae are fixed within recessed wells on the card surface to prevent damage.

• Cards are available in packs of 100 or 250 for scalable application.

Application Instructions

• Open the outer box only inside the greenhouse to prevent premature exposure.

• Tear along perforated lines to separate individual cards.

• Always handle cards by the top to avoid disturbing the recess containing the pupae.

• Hang the cards in shaded areas, within the mid-canopy foliage of crops such as tomatoes and cucumbers.

• For ornamentals, place cards level with lower leaves and avoid soil contact.

Maintain even distribution throughout the crop for uniform emergence and coverage.

Storage and Handling Guidelines

To preserve the quality and viability of Encarline, follow these storage practices:

• Use within 18 hours of delivery for best performance.

• If immediate release is not possible, store at 5–10°C (41–50°F) in the original outer packaging.

• Keep cards away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Handle gently during setup and transport.

Visual Monitoring and Performance Indicators

Encarline is easy to monitor in the crop due to the appearance of parasitized scales:

• Parasitized whitefly larvae turn black, making them easy to detect against the foliage.

• Active adult wasps can be observed flying or moving through the canopy, indicating successful emergence.

This visibility offers confidence in the establishment and effectiveness of the wasps shortly after deployment.

Final Words

Encarline is a trusted and efficient solution for growers looking to control greenhouse whiteflies naturally and effectively. With its dual-action method of parasitism and host feeding, high emergence rates, and practical card-based release system, it fits seamlessly into IPM programs for vegetables and ornamentals alike. Whether you're growing tomatoes under high-wire systems or delicate ornamentals, Encarline provides reliable protection with minimal handling and maximum results.