How can spider mites be eliminated on impatiens? - briefly
Apply a series of horticultural‑oil sprays or insecticidal‑soap treatments at weekly intervals, covering leaf undersides thoroughly, and release predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis to control «spider mites». Remove heavily infested foliage and maintain moderate humidity to suppress further infestations.
How can spider mites be eliminated on impatiens? - in detail
Spider mites cause rapid foliage discoloration on impatiens, feeding on cell contents and producing fine webbing. Heavy infestations reduce photosynthetic capacity and can lead to plant death if unchecked.
Cultural measures reduce mite populations. Maintain humidity above 60 % by misting or grouping plants, because dry conditions favor mite reproduction. Remove weeds and debris that harbor pests. Rotate planting sites annually to break life cycles. Apply a balanced fertilizer, avoiding excess nitrogen that promotes soft, succulent growth preferred by mites.
Mechanical actions provide immediate reduction. Inspect leaves daily, especially undersides, and wash off mites with a strong jet of water. Prune heavily infested stems and discard them away from the garden. Use a soft brush to dislodge webs.
Chemical options include acaricidal soaps and horticultural oils. Apply a 2–5 % potassium salt solution or a neem‑based oil, covering both leaf surfaces until runoff. Repeat applications every 5–7 days until populations drop below economic thresholds. For severe cases, synthetic miticides such as abamectin or spiromesifen may be employed, following label rates and observing pre‑harvest intervals.
Biological agents offer sustainable control. Introduce predatory mites (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus) at a rate of 10–20 predators per square foot. Ensure adequate humidity and avoid broad‑spectrum insecticides that harm beneficials. Entomopathogenic fungi like Beauveria bassiana can be sprayed, providing additional mortality under suitable temperature and moisture conditions.
Monitoring remains essential. Use a hand lens to count mites per leaf; thresholds of 5–10 mites per 10 cm² indicate the need for intervention. Record observations in a garden log to track population trends and adjust management tactics accordingly.