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Spider
Mites, A Simple Control
When one gets an infestation of spider mites immediate actions should be taken in order to prevent a out of control situation. Symptoms of injury include flecking, discoloration (bronzing) and scorching of leaves. Injury can lead to leaf loss and even plant death. First the grower needs to select an insecticide appropriate for this particular insect. Second it is VERY important to know the life cycle of the mite you are targeting. The next is to have the proper application (and protective wear & equipment) and knowledge of how to spray for effective control of the insect. And remember for eradication more than one application of spray will be necessary.
The following is a list of control agents:
(These will work to some
degree)
Malathion* (“Malathion is an insecticide of relatively low human toxicity”), Horticultural Oil*, Neem Oil, Broad spectrum systemic sprays (Orthine - Isotox), Insecticidal soaps.
(Most agricultural colleges do not recommend any of the above
other than horticulture oil see links at bottom of page.)
*1.25-2.5 oz. for 1gal. Water for summer application, reduce for greenhouse conditions.
To add Malathion use at ½ recommended dose for both products. Do not use if temps will exceed 85 degrees the day of spray you will kill both the mites and your plants.
(These will work better)
Floramite, Avid, Akari, TetraSan 5 WDG, Forbid, Hexygon DF and the addition of Stirrup M (sex attractant pheromone).
And lastly, hosing off plant with a fine but powerful water spray will work in certain environments.
Before proceeding, use good judgment by wearing the appropriate protective gear, then choose the best sprayer for the particular task. Do not use a hose end sprayer for safety and the environments sake. Make sure to follow manufactures directions and precautions for the spray material. Read the entire label for the product.
Spraying method should include spraying the entire plant: This means special attention to the undersides of the leaves, the tips of the apical and lateral stems**. Make sure you do appropriate follow-up applications. Follow the manufactures directions in all cases for repeat applications.
**Plants have two different types of stems, the main stem, called the apical stem, and the side stems, called lateral stems. The apical stem extends all the way from the roots to the tip of the plant. The lateral stems branch off from the main stem in regular intervals. On a tree, the apical stem would be the trunk, while the lateral stems would be the branches.
These are a few
educational links for spider mites;
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7405.html
http://www.fmcprosolutions.com/Portals/pest/Content/Docs/BMP/pest_bmp_t1spidermite.pdf
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2012.html
http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/ef438.asp
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