How to fight spider mite on boxwood? - briefly
Apply a targeted miticide or horticultural oil spray early in the season, repeating every 7–10 days until populations drop, and supplement with regular pruning of heavily infested branches and vigorous watering to discourage mite reproduction.
How to fight spider mite on boxwood? - in detail
Spider mites are a common pest of boxwood, causing stippling, yellowing, and leaf drop. Early detection relies on inspecting the undersides of foliage for tiny moving specks and webbing. A magnifying lens helps confirm their presence before damage becomes severe.
Cultural practices reduce mite populations. Keep plants well‑watered but avoid excess moisture that encourages fungal growth. Prune crowded branches to improve air flow and light penetration. Remove and destroy heavily infested shoots to lower the breeding pool.
Physical controls include washing foliage with a strong jet of water to dislodge mites. Apply the spray early in the morning when temperatures are below 20 °C to minimize leaf burn. Repeat the rinse every 5–7 days until counts decline.
Biological agents provide sustainable control. Release predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus at the recommended rate; they consume several spider mites per day. Maintain a habitat of pollen or yeast to support predator survival.
Chemical options are reserved for severe outbreaks. Use miticides labeled for boxwood, following the manufacturer’s dosage and re‑application interval. Rotate products with different modes of action to prevent resistance. After each application, wash leaves with water to remove residue and reduce phytotoxic risk.