How should a greenhouse be treated for mites? - briefly
Apply regular scouting, use a suitable miticide or introduce predatory mites, and keep humidity low and sanitation high to suppress populations. Combine chemical treatment with cultural practices for lasting control.
How should a greenhouse be treated for mites? - in detail
Managing mite infestations in a greenhouse demands an integrated approach that combines monitoring, cultural practices, biological agents, and, when necessary, chemical controls.
First, establish a routine scouting program. Inspect leaves, stems, and soil surfaces weekly, focusing on the undersides of foliage where spider mites and broad‑leaf mites congregate. Record population levels and identify hot spots to target interventions promptly.
Second, maintain environmental conditions that discourage mite reproduction. Reduce relative humidity to 50‑60 % and keep temperatures between 20‑25 °C (68‑77 °F), as excessively warm and dry air accelerates their life cycle. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent stagnant microclimates that favor rapid population growth.
Third, apply cultural tactics that limit food sources and breeding sites. Remove plant debris, prune heavily infested foliage, and rotate crops where feasible. Use reflective mulches or aluminum foil strips to disrupt mite navigation and deter colonization.
Fourth, introduce biological control agents. Release predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus, or Amblyseius swirskii according to manufacturer recommendations. Maintain a prey‑to‑predator ratio of roughly 5:1 to allow the predators to establish effectively. Supplement with entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Beauveria bassiana) for added pressure on mite populations.
Fifth, if monitoring indicates that biological measures are insufficient, employ selective miticides. Choose products with low toxicity to beneficial insects, such as neem oil, abamectin, or spirodiclofen, and rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance. Apply according to label dosage, covering both leaf surfaces thoroughly, and observe a pre‑harvest interval before marketable produce is harvested.
Finally, document all actions, dates, and outcomes. Analyze trends to refine the program, adjusting scouting frequency, environmental settings, or biological releases as needed. Consistent record‑keeping ensures long‑term suppression of mite threats while preserving crop health and productivity.