How to Rid Rose Bushes of Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny spiders that live underneath rose leaves. They are a common pest for roses and can be difficult to eradicate. Spider mites may look harmless, but they can cause roses to wilt, turn yellow and dry out. The mites also create tiny holes in the rose leaves and cause them to drop. Controlling spider mites is crucial to your rose garden's health. There are several remedies that you can apply in an effort to get rid of spider mites. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Magnifying glass
- Garden hose
- Neem oil
- Warm water
- Mild liquid dishwashing soap
- Spray bottle
- Beneficial insects
- Commercial insecticides
Instructions
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1
Look for spider mites on your roses to see the extent of the invasion. Use the magnifying glass to identify the mites. You will see small holes in the leaves and notice the leaves are withered and yellow.
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2
Spray your rose bushes every morning with cold water, using the garden hose, to get rid of most of the spider mites. Concentrate on the underside of the roses and the leaves.
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3
Mix a tablespoon of the neem oil with a quart of warm water and 1/4 tsp. of the mild liquid dishwashing soap. Pour this mixture in the spray bottle and spray the leaves once a week. Neem oil is non-toxic to humans and animals but discourages spider mites. The oil may discolor rose petals, so avoid spraying the roses directly.
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4
Buy beneficial pests such as lady bugs, thrips and pirate bugs. Sprinkle them around your rose bushes so they can eat the spider mites.
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5
Use a commercial insecticide on your rose bushes if other remedies don't work. Ingredients to look for include abamecitin and dicofol. Attach the insecticide to the garden hose and apply the mixture daily.
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