Eucalyptus & Spider Mites

Eucalyptus trees are susceptible to spider mite infestations.

Eucalyptus ficifolia is native to Australia and a member of the Myrtaceae family. This tree is most commonly found on the West Coast of the United States and is highly susceptible to insects, such as the spider mite.

Identification

Spider mites are tiny insects that are actually members of the spider family. These insects are common pests of many ornamental trees and shrubs. Spider mites are often red, yellow, green or brown and are so small they are difficult to see without a magnifying glass.

Symptoms

Symptoms of spider mite infestations on eucalyptus include injury to leaves such as flecking or discoloration, leaf scorching and premature leaf loss. Large numbers of spider mites produce a fine webbing on the leaves of host plants. Heavy infestation of this insect can cause eucalyptus trees to die.

Control

Spider mites are often difficult to control, mainly because the use of insecticides kills predatory insects that feed on spider mites. Washing your eucalyptus tree with a hard stream of water may knock mites from the branches and leaves. Applying miticides to your tree may reduce spider mites as well.

References

• University of Florida: Eucalyptus Ficifolia Red Flowering Gum
• Colorado State University: Spider Mites