Mites Pest Control

1. Mites
Mites undergo incomplete metamorphosis. They hatch from eggs into six-legged larvae. They then
molt and emerge as eight-legged nymphs, which molt again into an eight-legged adult.
The most familiar pest mite is the red spider mite (also called two-spotted mite) Tetranychus urticae.
It’s a serious pest of a wide range of plants, including indoor plants. Both nymphs and adults suck
plant sap, mainly on the under surface of leaves but when the infestation is heavy they will be found
on the upper surfaces as well. The adults are only just large enough to be seen (the photograph left
is magnified)
Damage to plants is seen as rust-like, mottling or speckling of leaves (as shown here). Severe
infestation will cause yellowing of leaves and eventually leaves may die and fall off. Damage can be
confused with other plant pests though, so correct identification is necessary. Webbing can often be
seen on leaves.
Control of Mites
Mites spread by many methods. They can crawl from plant to plant; they can be windblown,
transferred by moving pots around, and even on cutting material. High temperatures during dry or
humid conditions will increase mite activity.
Pesticide (miticide) resistance can be a problem, so more than one miticide is usually required. And
because mites tend to congregate on the under side of leaves, contact sprays are not very effective.
Miticides can target specific life stages of mites too. Avoid non-selective pesticides as these will be
toxic to useful predators as well.
Sanitation in the home garden is the most effective control. Be vigilant and take action before mites
become a severe infestation, by removing and destroying affected plant parts, avoid handling
infested material or touching affected plants with clothing. Keep weeds in check as these can
harbour mites.

2. Predatory Mites
These mites actually consume other mites. They prey on eggs, nymphs and adults and their use in
the horticultural industry is now common place.