What to use to destroy mites on plants?

What to use to destroy mites on plants? - briefly

Use oil‑based miticides such as neem oil, horticultural oil, or insecticidal soap, applied according to label directions. For heavy infestations, select acaricides containing abamectin or spirotetramat, respecting pre‑harvest intervals.

What to use to destroy mites on plants? - in detail

Mite infestations threaten plant health by feeding on foliage, reducing photosynthetic capacity and transmitting diseases. Control strategies combine chemical, biological, cultural and physical measures to achieve rapid reduction and long‑term suppression.

Chemical options include synthetic acaricides such as abamectin, bifenthrin or spiromesifen. These compounds act on the nervous system of mites, causing paralysis and death. Application rates follow label instructions, typically 0.5–2 ml L⁻¹ of spray solution, applied to the underside of leaves where mites reside. Resistance management requires rotating products with different modes of action and limiting the number of applications per season.

Botanical and low‑toxicity products provide safer alternatives. Neem oil, containing azadirachtin, interferes with mite feeding and reproduction. Recommended concentration is 1–2 % (10–20 ml L⁻¹) with thorough coverage of foliage. Horticultural oils, such as mineral oil or paraffinic oil, smother mites and their eggs. Effective dosage ranges from 0.5 to 1 % (5–10 ml L⁻¹); thorough wetting of leaf surfaces is essential, and treatments should avoid temperatures above 30 °C to prevent phytotoxicity.

Biological control relies on predatory mites, chiefly Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus and Amblyseius swirskii. These agents consume spider‑mite eggs and larvae, establishing populations that maintain low pest levels. Release rates depend on crop type and infestation intensity, commonly 10–30 predators cm⁻² for heavily infested foliage. Compatibility with chemical sprays must be considered; avoid broad‑spectrum acaricides that harm beneficial species.

Cultural practices reduce mite colonisation. Maintaining optimal humidity (≥ 60 % RH) discourages mite development, while regular pruning removes infested plant parts. Crop rotation and removal of weed hosts limit reservoir populations. Soil‑borne diatomaceous earth, applied as a thin dusting on the soil surface, desiccates ground‑dwelling mites and their eggs.

Physical methods include water sprays and vacuuming. A strong jet of water dislodges mites from leaf undersides; repeated applications are necessary due to rapid recolonisation. In greenhouse settings, handheld vacuum devices extract mites from foliage without damaging plants.

Integrated pest management (IPM) combines these tactics: start with a thorough inspection, apply a targeted acaricide or oil if population exceeds economic thresholds, introduce predatory mites, and reinforce with cultural adjustments. Monitoring continues weekly, adjusting interventions based on mite counts and plant response. This multifaceted approach maximises efficacy while minimising chemical residues and resistance development.