About Red Spider Mites
Red spider mites are a common garden pest related to spiders, but too small for you to easily see without a magnifying glass. They can affect many plants, especially when conditions are dry. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types of Red Spider Mites
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There are two types of red spider mites. The European type only affects apple trees. The more common, Southern red spider mite affects many more plants.
Preferred Weather
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The European type prefers hot and dry conditions, while the Southern type prefers cooler dry weather.
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Damage to Plants
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The mites bite into plants with their mouths to suck out the contents of cells. Branches and the underside of leaves may have webbing. An infestation may look like speckles or dust. The plants turn yellow, become stunted, drop foliage, and may die.
Spotting Infestations
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Knock a leaf against a piece of light-colored paper or cardboard. The mites will fall on the paper and start walking around. If there are only a few, inspect the plant carefully. You can probably remove them from the plant by hand or use a syringe filled with water.
Pest Control
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If you have mite infestations, more aggressive control methods include natural predators (ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites) and insecticidal oils and soaps you can buy from gardening supply centers. Regular insecticides do not usually kill mites.
Prevention/Solution
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Red spider mites like dry conditions, so watering your plants and keeping them healthy is the best way to prevent infestations.
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