Red spider mite
Red spider mites in extreme closeup
Look out for fine filaments on leaves
Description
Red Spider Mites are perhaps the smallest of the common sap feeding insects. Less than 1mm in size. So small you may need a magnifying glass to see them – but however small they’re still pests. They like it warm and dry which is why they can commonly be found indoors, in conservatories, sun lounges or greenhouses. They can also be found outside if the summer is dry and warm – so don’t hold your breath looking for them if you’re in Wales or Manchester. Early in the year they are a yellowish-green colour. They only turn red as summer turns into autumn – coming out in sympathy with the trees or something like that!
Symptoms
Leaves first develop a pale mottling but as the infestation progresses so the leaves become increasingly yellowish white. Turn the leaf and look closely or with a magnifying glass to see the tiny mites and their globe shaped eggs.
Treatment and control
Spray with a natural-based insecticide
Fatty acids and sulphur based insecticides will control Red Spider Mite and other plant pests. An example is Natural Fungus & Bug Killer. For best results spray thoroughly.
Spray with a general insecticide
Most broad-spectrum insecticides will control Red Spider Mite. For edible plants use BugClear for Fruit & Veg Concentrate (contains rape seed oil) or BugClear Gun! for Fruit & Veg (contains pyrethrins). For ornamental plants use BugClear Ultra or BugClear Ultra Gun! (contains acetamiprid). BugClear Ultra is a systemic insecticide that kills very quickly on contact and also protects the plant for up to 3 weeks.
