How to combat spider mites? - briefly
Use cultural practices (prune heavily infested leaves, keep plants well‑watered, reduce humidity) together with biological agents such as predatory mites, and apply neem oil or a suitable miticide when populations exceed thresholds. Maintain regular monitoring to intervene early and prevent outbreaks.
How to combat spider mites? - in detail
Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions and reproduce rapidly, so timely intervention is essential. Begin by inspecting plants weekly, focusing on the undersides of leaves where the pests congregate. Early detection allows for low‑intensity measures before infestations become severe.
Cultural tactics reduce habitat suitability. Increase ambient humidity through misting or by grouping plants with water‑retaining species. Remove heavily infested foliage and prune crowded branches to improve airflow. Rotate crops and avoid planting susceptible species in the same location for consecutive seasons.
Biological agents provide sustainable suppression. Release predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus at a rate of 10–20 mites per square foot. Maintain temperatures above 20 °C to support predator activity. Augment with entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Beauveria bassiana) applied as a fine spray, following label recommendations for concentration and re‑application intervals.
Chemical options serve as a last resort when populations exceed economic thresholds. Select products containing abamectin, bifenthrin, or spiromesifen, and apply according to label dosage to avoid resistance development. Rotate active ingredients every 7–10 days and limit applications to three per growing season. Use neem oil or horticultural oil for contact control, ensuring thorough coverage of leaf surfaces.
Integrated management combines the above strategies. Implement regular scouting, adjust environmental conditions, introduce natural enemies, and reserve synthetic sprays for critical outbreaks. Document each action, monitor pest counts, and adjust tactics based on observed efficacy. This systematic approach maximizes control while minimizing chemical reliance.