Spider Mites

Spider mites are teeny-tiny, eight-legged critters that are more closely related to spiders and ticks (as are all mites) than they are to insects. Many of these tiny pests spin fine webs which help protect them against their natural enemies.  

Damage to plants  

Spider mites can target many different plants. They are common on many perennials, roses, fruit trees and small fruits, needled evergreens like spruce and juniper, and even vegetable plants and houseplants. They do damage to leaves by piercing plant cells with their mouth parts and sucking out the juices. This gives the leaves a stippled appearance with small yellow spots and may cause bronzing of the foliage.

Do you have spider mites?

Tell-tale signs of spider mites are the splotchy yellowing of the foliage and the appearance of fine webbing on the leaves. If you suspect spider mites, you can confirm your suspicions by holding a sheet of white paper under a leaf or branch and sharply tapping it over the paper. This will cause the mites to fall onto the sheet of paper and you will see little dots moving around on it.

Control Measures

• Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions and seem to especially target plants that are stressed due to drought or poor nutrition. One of the best controls is to keep your plants healthy through proper watering and feeding.   
• Spraying affected plants with a jet of water will not only knock many of them off but the moisture will temporarily create unfavorable conditions for these mites.  
• Bonide All Seasons Oil can be sprayed on your plants to smother the mites and this is another good non-chemical means of spider mite control. Always read and follow the label directions.
• For severe infestations, the application of a miticide  may be necessary to control spider mites. Bonide Mite-X, Bonide Captain Jacks Deadbug Brew, and Bayer Advanced Natria Insect, Disease & Mite Control are listed for control of spider mites.
• ALWAYS READ and FOLLOW the LABEL directions when using any pesticides.