Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are the insects supplied by Bug Central safe to release?
This concern is sometimes referred to as the Cane Toad Effect! We are right to be cautious of creating another cane toad episode in Australia, but the products supplied by Bug Central are completely safe, and will not turn feral! The majority of the products we supply are actually Australian native insects, found throughout the country. Those products Bug Central supply that are not natives have been widely used in commercial horticulture for many years and have proven not to be harmful to our environment.
Q. How do I know if the good bugs are working?
Control will not be as dramatic as when you apply a pesticide. Biological control using good bugs aims to maintain a low level of pests that will not cause damage to your plants. If all the pests are killed, then the good bugs will die out, and the pest can re-infest from neighbouring areas. Do not expect instant results, and expect to see a few pests around the garden. A balance of good and bad bugs is the sign of a healthy environment!
Q. How long can I keep the good bugs before release?
The product will be supplied with information on how long the insects will survive prior to release. In most cases this will be a few days after you receive them. We try to send your order by Wednesday or Thursday each week, so the release can be done on a weekend. Bugs can usually be stored for a few days in a cool place (not a refrigerator, but a cool spot out of direct sunlight).
Q. How do I release the good bugs?
Once you receive your good bugs in the post, you need to release them in the garden. Details of how to do this are included with each product, but some general rules apply:
- Ensure no chemical residues are around on the plants
- Always release the bugs close to the target pest
- For those products that are live insects, releasing in the late afternoon or evening will help to keep the bugs close to the target pest
- Release the bugs within the timeframe indicated on the packaging information
- Avoid harsh weather such as extreme heat or cold if possible
- If in doubt, you can contact bugs@bugcentral.com.au
Q. What is IPM?
IPM stands for Integrated Pest Management. This term refers to the use of a range of control measures to manage pest populations in a sustainable way. Whilst IPM utilises the most environmentally friendly option available, it does not exclude the use of pesticides if absolutely necessary.
Download our Fact Sheet on IPM if you would like to learn more..
We also have a DVD available for purchase that gives a good overview of IPM in Australia. CLICK HERE
