How long can Trich. Wasps be stored?

[auntkeds]

Hi,

I'm new to this discussion group, so pardon me if this question has been asked before. I just received a package of Trich. wasps in the mail that I bought to get rid of web worms, but the BT and my 'yard wasps' got rid of them before I received the package.

Question: How long will they keep in the package? Should they be kept cold?

Thanks,

Carolyn Kohls

[cynthiac]

All I could find is this:
http://www.naturescontrol.com/caterpillarparasites.html
"To delay hatching, they may be kept refrigerated for a couple of days, while keeping them in a warm room will speed hatching. As soon as they've hatched, the cups or the cards can be wedged among the plant foliage, or stapled to leaves or branches. (Early morning or evening is the best time to do this.)"

Also:
http://216.239.51.104/search?q=cache:SDgWRCYC57kJ:www.bugsforbugs.com.au/downloads/trichogramma.pdf++Trichogramma+wasps+larvae+storage&hl=en&ie=UTF-8

"If field conditions are unfavourable for release (raining or very hot), the capsules can be stored at 8 ­ 10 C for up to three days, depending on previous storage and how close they are to emergence. Do not allow the fridge to drop below 3 C".

You also may want to search for suppliers and call them about storage.

I must say it has been fun reading about this subject (searching on the internet).

[Billusa99]

I think you should release them, as the are good for other pests too.

Where did you get them??... Redenta's told me yesterday they had 'lost' their source for them.

If you are anywhere near M-Streets, PM me and I'll buy them!