https://notes.mux.me/posts/Recent content in Posts on Random notesHugoen-usThu, 08 May 2025 15:13:33 +0200https://notes.mux.me/posts/predatory-bugs/Thu, 08 May 2025 15:13:33 +0200https://notes.mux.me/posts/predatory-bugs/<p>Status: draft</p> <p>This post documents my experience using biological control methods against thrips. I focus on growing cacti, which creates a challenge: most predatory insects need high humidity, while cacti require drier conditions. Though I&rsquo;ve only dealt with thrips, these observations might help with other pests.</p> <p>I&rsquo;ve tried Neoseiulus (formerly Amblyseius) californicus and cucumeris, but it&rsquo;s hard to say how well they performed. I suspect the relative humidity in my apartment and in my tents is too low; at least 60%, ideally 70% is recommended. I got some californicus because they should tolerate lower humidity, but thrips are not their preferred prey (they are better for spider mites, for example).</p>