Spider Mite
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Introduction to
Spider mites (Tetranychidae) are tiny arachnids that are common garden pests, affecting plants both indoors and outdoors. These pests feed on plant sap, leaving behind damaged foliage and weakening the plant’s overall health. Spider mites thrive in warm, dry conditions, making them especially problematic during summer months. Recognizing the signs of an infestation and taking early action is crucial to protecting your plants from serious harm.
Recognition
Spider mites are extremely small, typically less than 0.5 mm in size, making them difficult to spot with the naked eye. They come in a variety of colors, including red, green, and yellow, often depending on their species and feeding habits. A clear sign of their presence is the fine, silky webbing they produce on plant leaves and stems. Infested plants may show yellowing, browning, or stippling of the leaves. You may also notice tiny moving specks if you closely inspect the undersides of leaves, where spider mites typically congregate.
Biology
Spider mites have a rapid lifecycle, especially in warm conditions, completing their development from egg to adult in just 5–20 days. A single female can lay hundreds of eggs, which hatch within 3 days. The lifecycle includes egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages, with multiple generations overlapping during an infestation. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry weather, and their populations can explode quickly under such conditions. They feed by piercing plant cells and sucking out the contents, which weakens the plant and leads to visible damage.
Habits
Spider mites prefer the undersides of leaves, where they are shielded from direct sunlight and predators. They are active feeders and are particularly damaging to plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, and ornamental flowers. Spider mites produce webbing not only as a protective measure but also to help them move from one part of the plant to another. Their feeding reduces a plant’s ability to photosynthesize, causing stress that can lead to stunted growth or plant death if left unchecked.
Prevention
Preventing spider mite infestations involves maintaining proper plant care and environmental conditions. Keep plants well-watered, as spider mites thrive in dry environments. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for early signs of mites or webbing. If you notice an infestation, rinse plants with a strong jet of water to dislodge mites or apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to affected areas. For severe infestations, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or predatory mites. Ensure good air circulation and avoid over-fertilizing plants, as excessive nitrogen can encourage mite reproduction.
Professional
For widespread or persistent spider mite problems, STL Pest Control offers professional solutions to protect your plants and landscape. Their team of experts can assess the extent of the infestation and apply targeted treatments, including eco-friendly pesticides and mite-specific solutions. STL Pest Control also provides guidance on plant care and prevention strategies to minimize future outbreaks. With their expertise, you can ensure the health and vitality of your garden.
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