Facts on Spider Mites

Spider mites are among the most challenging garden pests to control. They are difficult to detect, are not deterred by marigolds or garlic plants and reproduce very quickly. Once you recognize you may have an infestation, your plants may already be damaged. It usually takes several treatments to eliminate an infestation and this does not prevent their return within the same season.

Features

Spider mites are not insects. They are arachnids, cousin to spiders and scorpions. These tiny garden pests feed on almost any plant, piercing leaf tissue and sucking out plant fluids.

Geography

Spider mites can be found throughout North America and Europe. The two-spotted spider mite prefers hot, dry regions, while the spruce mite and southern red mite prefer cooler climates.

Identification

Spider mites measure one-fiftieth of an inch. You need a magnifying glass to see a single spider mite. They have eight hairy legs and their bodies are elliptical in shape.

Effects

If your vegetable plants, flowers or trees are turning yellow, look dried out and dirty, and the leaves have a copper colored hue, your garden may be infested with spider mites. Spider mites can also infect houseplants and greenhouse plants.

Prevention/Solution

Ladybugs can be used to control and even eliminate spider mites. You can also spray the affected plants with a soft soap spray. Mix 3 caps of mild dish detergent with 1 quart of water and mix well. Use a spray bottle to apply, being sure to spray both sides of the leaves. After 24 hours, spray the plants with a hose to remove the mites and residue.

Time Frame

The female spider mite lays her eggs on the underside of leaves and weaves a fine web over them. Spider mites can mature from egg to adult in as little as one week. Because they reproduce and multiply so quickly, creating several generations within a season, any treatment needs to be applied over several weeks.