How can I eradicate spider mites on tomatoes? - briefly
Use a vigorous spray of water to knock mites off the foliage, then apply insecticidal soap or neem oil at the recommended rate every 5–7 days until they are gone. Remove heavily infested leaves and maintain consistent watering to reduce future infestations.
How can I eradicate spider mites on tomatoes? - in detail
Spider mites can devastate tomato crops if left unchecked. Effective management combines early detection, cultural adjustments, biological agents, and, when necessary, chemical treatments.
Identify the pest by inspecting leaves for tiny, moving specks and stippled discoloration. Use a white sheet of paper or a hand lens to confirm presence. Begin scouting when plants are young and continue weekly.
Cultural practices that reduce mite populations:
- Keep foliage dry; water at the base rather than overhead.
- Provide adequate spacing to improve air circulation.
- Remove weeds and plant debris that shelter mites.
- Prune heavily infested leaves promptly.
- Rotate crops or alternate planting sites each season.
Biological controls offer sustainable suppression:
- Release predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus at a rate of 10–20 k per square meter.
- Encourage natural predators by planting nectar‑producing herbs (e.g., dill, coriander) nearby.
- Apply a dilute solution of neem oil (1 % v/v) or horticultural oil (2–5 % v/v) to coat leaf surfaces, suffocating mites and their eggs.
Chemical interventions should be reserved for severe outbreaks:
- Use acaricides registered for tomato production, following label rates and pre‑harvest intervals.
- Rotate products with different modes of action to prevent resistance buildup.
- Apply sprays early in the morning or late afternoon to minimize phytotoxicity.
Monitoring after each intervention is essential. Re‑inspect plants 3–5 days post‑treatment; if mite counts remain above the economic threshold (approximately 5 mites per leaf), repeat the chosen control method or switch to an alternative. Maintaining a regular scouting schedule and integrating the measures above will keep spider mite infestations under control and protect tomato yields.