How to get rid of spider mites on cucumbers in a greenhouse using folk methods? - briefly
Use a neem‑oil solution (1 % oil with a few drops of mild soap) sprayed on foliage every 5–7 days, and supplement with garlic or tobacco tea sprays for added miticidal effect. Introduce natural predators such as ladybird beetles or predatory mites to sustain long‑term control.
How to get rid of spider mites on cucumbers in a greenhouse using folk methods? - in detail
Spider mites infest cucumber vines in greenhouse environments, causing stippled leaves, reduced photosynthesis, and potential crop loss. Traditional, low‑cost measures can suppress and eradicate the pest without synthetic chemicals.
First, isolate the problem area. Remove heavily infested vines, discard the lower leaves, and clean the soil surface to eliminate dropped debris where mites hide.
Second, apply physical barriers. Cover the soil with a fine layer of sand or diatomaceous earth; both substances abrade the mite’s exoskeleton and deter movement. Spread the material evenly, maintaining a depth of 1–2 cm.
Third, use botanical sprays. Prepare a solution of neem oil (5 ml per litre of water) or a diluted extract of garlic (30 g crushed garlic per litre of water). Add a few drops of mild liquid soap as an emulsifier. Spray the foliage until runoff, covering both upper and lower leaf surfaces. Repeat every 5–7 days until populations decline.
Fourth, introduce predatory insects. Release commercially available Phytoseiulus persimilis or Amblyseius swirskii at a rate of 10–15 predators per plant. These natural enemies consume spider mites and reproduce within the greenhouse climate.
Fifth, control humidity and temperature. Maintain relative humidity above 60 % and temperature between 20–25 °C; higher humidity interferes with mite reproduction, while excessive heat accelerates their life cycle. Use misting systems or humidifiers to raise humidity during dry periods.
Sixth, practice cultural sanitation. Rotate cucumber crops with non‑host plants, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, and prune dense foliage to improve air circulation. Healthy plants resist mite colonization more effectively.
Summary of steps:
- Remove and destroy heavily infested leaves and vines.
- Cover soil with sand or diatomaceous earth (1–2 cm depth).
- Apply neem‑oil or garlic‑soap spray every 5–7 days, covering both leaf sides.
- Release predatory mites (10–15 per plant) and monitor their establishment.
- Keep humidity > 60 % and temperature 20–25 °C.
- Maintain sanitation, rotate crops, limit nitrogen, and prune for airflow.
Consistent implementation of these folk techniques reduces spider mite populations, protects cucumber yields, and avoids reliance on chemical pesticides.