What should be done with a greenhouse in autumn after spider mites? - briefly
«Remove plant debris, disinfect all surfaces with an appropriate acaricide, and discard any infested material». «Seal the greenhouse, reduce ventilation for cooler weather, and store remaining crops in frost‑free conditions».
What should be done with a greenhouse in autumn after spider mites? - in detail
Effective management of a greenhouse in the autumn season after a spider‑mite outbreak requires a systematic approach that restores plant health, eliminates residual pests, and prepares the structure for winter conditions.
First, remove all plant material that shows signs of damage or heavy infestation. Discard affected foliage in sealed bags to prevent accidental spread. Clean surfaces, benches, and gutters with a solution of warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
Second, treat the remaining plants and the growing environment. Apply a horticultural oil or a neem‑based spray according to label directions, ensuring coverage of the undersides of leaves where mites often reside. Repeat applications at 7‑ to 10‑day intervals until no mobile stages are observed. For severe cases, consider a short‑term use of a miticide registered for greenhouse use, observing pre‑harvest intervals.
Third, enhance environmental controls to deter future outbreaks. Reduce relative humidity to 50‑60 % and maintain temperatures between 15 °C and 20 °C during daylight hours. Increase air circulation with fans to disrupt mite movement. Install yellow sticky traps along aisles to monitor population levels.
Fourth, implement cultural practices that limit mite reproduction. Rotate crops, avoid planting the same host species consecutively, and introduce predatory insects such as Phytoseiulus persimilis if compatible with the crop. Remove weeds and debris that can harbor pests.
Fifth, winterize the structure. Seal cracks and gaps to prevent drafts that could lower temperature stability. Insulate glazing with bubble wrap or horticultural fleece to maintain a minimum night temperature of 5 °C. Drain and clean irrigation lines, then store pumps and hoses in a dry, frost‑free area.
Finally, establish a monitoring schedule for the upcoming season. Conduct weekly inspections of leaf undersides, record mite counts from sticky traps, and adjust control measures promptly.
By following these steps, the greenhouse will transition from a mite‑affected state to a clean, well‑managed environment ready for winter storage and future production cycles.