How to control spider mites on strawberries and what measures should be taken? - briefly
Apply horticultural oil or a suitable miticide early in the season, rotate with biological agents such as predatory mites, and maintain plant hygiene by removing infested foliage, controlling weeds, and providing adequate irrigation to deter spider mite proliferation.
How to control spider mites on strawberries and what measures should be taken? - in detail
Spider mites (Tetranychidae) rapidly colonize strawberry foliage, feeding on cell contents and causing stippling, bronzing, and leaf drop. Effective management requires early detection, cultural practices, biological agents, and, when necessary, chemical interventions.
Regular scouting of the canopy identifies infestations before populations exceed the economic threshold (approximately 5 mites per leaf). Examine the undersides of leaves for fine webbing and moving specks; a hand lens improves accuracy.
Cultural measures reduce habitat suitability:
- Maintain adequate plant spacing to improve air circulation and lower leaf humidity.
- Remove weeds and plant debris that shelter mites.
- Apply mulch to prevent soil‑borne mite migration.
- Irrigate with a fine spray to dislodge mites and wash away webs; repeat every 5–7 days during humid periods.
Biological controls exploit natural enemies:
- Introduce predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus; release rates of 10–20 predators per square meter are effective.
- Encourage lady beetles and lacewings by planting nectar‑producing border species (e.g., dill, fennel).
- Apply entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Beauveria bassiana) as a foliar spray; follow label rates for optimal infection.
Chemical options serve as a last resort and must be rotated to prevent resistance:
- Use horticultural oils (e.g., neem, mineral oil) at 1–2 % concentration; cover both leaf surfaces and repeat after 7 days.
- Apply selective acaricides such as abamectin or spirodiclofen, adhering to pre‑harvest intervals and resistance‑management guidelines.
- Avoid broad‑spectrum insecticides that eliminate beneficial predators.
Integrated pest management (IPM) combines these tactics. Begin with sanitation and monitoring, introduce biological agents when populations rise, supplement with oil sprays, and reserve synthetic acaricides for severe outbreaks. Record observations, treatment dates, and outcomes to refine future actions and sustain strawberry health.