How to Control Red Clover Mites

Red clover mites can be a mild to moderate nuisance. While generally harmless to humans and pets, they have the tendency to amass greatly on lawns in spring and early summer months. Sometimes a home can be suddenly invaded by the red menaces, as the bugs like to stick close to the lush lawns that provide them with nourishment. Here are a few tips for keeping these red pests under control.

Instructions

Outdoor Control

1. Avoid over-fertilization in the yard. Lush, fertilized lawns are ideal territory for clover mites, and it is this type of environment where they will be found in abundance. Water and fertilizer should be administered in moderation.

2. Remove grass and weeds from around the foundation of the home. This band, ideally, should be at least 18 to 24 inches wide. In this bare band, consider placing plant-free material such as marbles, sand, wood chips, etc., thus providing a barrier between the mites and the home.

3. Apply a chemical treatment to the lower exterior wall of a home in the case of severe infestations. The easiest method is purchasing an adequate insecticide that comes in a hose end sprayer. Spray the exterior wall up to the first floor windows as well as the band of lawn that surrounds the house.

Indoor Control

1. Attach the crevice tool to a household vacuum cleaner and suck up the clover mites from window ledges, walls and surfaces.

2. Wipe clover mites from walls and surfaces using a soapy sponge or cleaning rag. This should be done gently to avoid crushing the insects, as the red pigments in the bodies can cause staining on surfaces.

3. Fill a plastic spray bottle with warm water and a few tablespoons of dish detergent. Spray affected surfaces and walls. Remove mites and soapy water using a cleaning rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid crushing clover mites! The bright red color will leave stains on surfaces when the insects are crushed.

References

• DIY Pest Control
• University of Kentucky Entomology
• Ace Pest Control