How can I fight spider mites on tomatoes? - briefly
Dislodge spider mites using a strong water spray and treat the foliage with neem oil or insecticidal soap, repeating the application every 5–7 days; rotate with horticultural oil if infestations persist.
How can I fight spider mites on tomatoes? - in detail
Effective control of spider mites on tomato crops requires an integrated approach that combines cultural practices, biological agents, and, when necessary, targeted chemicals.
Begin with preventative measures. Maintain proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation and reduce leaf humidity, conditions that discourage mite proliferation. Water the foliage early in the day with a fine spray to wash away eggs and small populations. Remove heavily infested leaves promptly, and discard them away from the garden to prevent re‑infestation.
Regular monitoring is essential. Inspect the undersides of leaves every 3–5 days using a hand lens or magnifying glass. Look for stippling, webbing, and the characteristic tiny moving dots. Early detection allows treatment before populations reach damaging levels.
Biological control options include predatory insects and mites. Release of Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus, or Amblyseius swirskii can suppress infestations quickly. Ensure adequate humidity (≥ 60 %) for these agents to thrive, and avoid broad‑spectrum insecticides that would harm them.
Botanical oils and soaps provide rapid knock‑down. Apply horticultural oil or neem oil at a rate of 2 – 3 ml per liter of water, covering both leaf surfaces thoroughly. Repeat applications every 5–7 days until mite numbers decline, and discontinue use when natural predators become established.
When chemical intervention is unavoidable, select miticides with low toxicity to beneficial organisms. Products containing abamectin, spirodiclofen, or bifenazate are effective when applied according to label directions. Rotate active ingredients to delay resistance development, and limit applications to the minimum number required for control.
Finally, maintain soil health. Incorporate organic matter, use balanced fertilization, and avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote lush foliage favored by spider mites. A resilient plant is less susceptible to damage and recovers more quickly from infestations.