How to use Polyfly hoverflies

How to use Polyfly hoverflies

WhatsApp telegram linkedin
✅ Link copied!

At Polyfly, we supply our hoverflies QUEENFLY® (Eristalis tenax) and GOLDFLY® (Eristalinus aeneus) in pupa form, ready for release in the field.

Available formats include:

  • XS: 50 or 100 pupae.
  • S: 100 or 200 pupae.
  • M: 500 or 1,000 pupae.
  • L: 2,500 or 5,000 pupae.
  • XL: 7,500 or 15,000 pupae.

All formats are delivered in recyclable cardboard boxes, ready to use.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dose Calculation

The recommended quantity of hoverflies depends on the crop type and production environment (cages, tunnels, greenhouses, mesh-covered or open field). For a tailored pollination protocol, contact Polyfly directly.

2. Receiving and Handling Boxes

  • Store boxes in a dry place, out of direct sunlight (especially in summer).
  • Keep at moderate cold (8–12 °C) if not used immediately, for a maximum of 5 days.

3. Adult Emergence

Hoverflies emerge from pupae after a period depending on temperature:

  • 5–10 days at 15 °C.
  • 2–5 days at 25 °C.

Pollination activity begins 1 to 3 days after emergence.

4. Acclimatization (if needed)

Under extreme temperatures (below 10 °C or above 36 °C), acclimate pupae at ambient temperature (20–25 °C) for 2–3 days prior to release.

5. Field Release

Perform two main releases during a 4–5 week flowering period:

  • First release: at the beginning of flowering.
  • Second release: one week later or every 15 days, depending on crop development.

The goal is to synchronize peak flowering with peak adult hoverfly activity.

Recommendations and Precautions

  • Protect boxes from irrigation, rain, and direct sunlight.
  • Keep away from predators such as ants and birds (hanging the boxes is recommended).
  • Provide food sources if floral resources are limited: cloth-wrapped feeders and sugar containers.
  • Be cautious with pesticides: hoverflies are sensitive to them, just like bumblebees.

Compatibility with Other Pollinators

Polyfly hoverflies are fully compatible with:

  • Honeybees.
  • Bumblebees.
  • Other natural pollinators.
  • Beneficial insects.

They can be used alone or in combination to enhance overall pollination efficiency.