Biological controls have been used for many years but often the price for shipping and lack of knowledge have left many producers turning to chemical control for their primary action of combat for disease. 

An extension entomology specialist contacted the Taylor County Horticulture Extension Agent for possible producers to participate in a grant study. Three producers showed interest in the research project. One who primarily grows ornamentals had used biologicals before. 

The grower was having severe problems with mealybugs on ferns. After a spray of horticulture oil there were still mealybugs present. A release of 250 mealybug destroyers was shown to be ineffective due possibly to cold temperatures in the greenhouse where the ferns were kept. 

On the second release of 250 there was success. The movement in the greenhouse with increased temperatures allowed the adult mealybug destroyers to complete their lifecycle by laying eggs. The eggs hatched and the larva began to feed. About 80% of the ferns which received the mealybug destroyers showed a significant improvement in the reduction of mealybug populations. 

Due to the high infestation of mealybugs and high population of ferns one more release was conducted. 500 mealybug destroyers were released on ferns at other locations within the greenhouse in hopes of establishing a healthy colony. Upon the horticulture agent's last visit these 500 were hatching and starting to feed in the larva form.
 Reducing the amount of spraying within the greenhouse has been accomplished through this grant study. That was one of the main goals the producer had. Also using a biological to control his problem was accomplished as well. It does take a few weeks to achieve this goal, but if favorable environmental conditions exist and the correct population is reached, it has shown to be successful.