Spider Mites
Spider mites (Tetranychus spp.) are microscopic, spider-like pests, usually less than 1 mm in size, that feed on plant cells by piercing the leaf tissue and sucking out the contents. They thrive in warm, dry conditions and reproduce rapidly, often producing multiple generations in a single season. Both larvae and adults feed on plants, causing visible damage, while eggs are typically laid on the undersides of leaves. Adults produce webbing and can disperse to other plants, amplifying the infestation.
Spider mites affect a wide range of crops, including vegetables, ornamentals, fruit trees, and greenhouse plants. Heavy infestations can seriously reduce plant health, vigor, and yield.
Recognize the signs of infestation
Look for tiny red, yellow, or green mites on undersides of leaves. Fine webbing is a clear sign of infestation.
- Speckled or stippled leaves: Early feeding causes tiny pale or yellow spots on leaves. These spots are the result of plant cells being emptied of their contents.
- Leaf discoloration and bronzing: As feeding progresses, leaves may turn yellow, bronze, or grayish. Severe infestations can cause large sections of foliage to lose color.
- Fine webbing: Spider mites often produce fine, silky webs, especially on the undersides of leaves, between stems, or around flower buds. Webbing is a strong indicator of high population levels.
- Leaf drop and defoliation: Infested leaves may curl, dry out, and drop prematurely, weakening the plant and reducing yield.
- Visible mites: Adults and nymphs may be seen moving slowly on leaf surfaces. They are tiny and require close inspection or a hand lens to identify clearly.
- Stunted growth: Infested plants often exhibit reduced growth and vigor due to nutrient loss and extensive leaf damage.
- Secondary stress: Plants weakened by spider mites are more susceptible to diseases and environmental stressors, which can compound damage.
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