Spider Mites in the Low Desert

DESCRIPTION:

Tiny creatures, some less than 1/50 of an inch, most Spider Mites are too small to be seen without the aid of a microscope. They are usually oval or rounded in shape and may be yellow, red, greenish, or brownish in color. They were named Spider Mites because they produce a fine webbing between leaves, a sign of infestation.

DAMAGE:

They suck sap from leaves and fruit, which causes yellow spots or stippling on the leaves. Their feeding may cause deformations such as twisting and stunting of leaves as well. Other types of mites cause galls.

MANAGEMENT:

• For large plants (Italian Cypress etc.), a morning rinsing of foliage with a forceful spray of water at least weekly may help.



• Spray mites with Insecticidal Soap
  
• Miticides are also available for the control of Spider Mites.