PestMedium Severity

Spider Mites

Various species including Bryobia, Eutetranychus, Oligonychus, Panonychus, Schizotetranychus, and Tetranychus

Tiny arachnids ranging from 0.25-1.0 mm in size that feed on plant cells by piercing and sucking. Colors vary from pale yellow and green to dark green and red. Most active at temperatures between 54-100°F, with rapid reproduction in hot, dry conditions.

Peak Season: Most active 54-100°F, peak activity in hot dry weather, reduced activity during extreme heat, renewed activity in cooler fall weather
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Spider mite damage showing characteristic stippling and discoloration on broadleaf plants

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Fine flecking or stippling of foliage from feeding punctures
Chlorosis (yellowing) of leaves progressing to bronze coloration
Webbing on undersides of leaves (many species)
Inner mature needles showing first damage on conifers
Silvery appearance of needles before turning yellow then brown
Entire portions of leaves becoming yellow or bronze
Tiny moving specks visible when branch is shaken over white paper

Potential Damage

Reduced photosynthetic capacity from cell damage
Premature leaf drop and needle loss
Stunted growth and reduced plant vigor
Increased susceptibility to other stresses
Aesthetic damage to ornamental plants
Potential plant death in severe, untreated infestations

Lifecycle

Most species overwinter as eggs on foliage and twigs; some overwinter as adults in bark crevices. Spring hatching leads to six-legged larval stage, progressing through several nymphal stages to adults. Many generations develop during a single season, with generation time of 7-10 days. Mites increase during summer heat but may become dormant during hottest periods. Migration occurs through windblown webbing.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Early detection through regular monitoring with white paper test

2

Miticide applications targeting crawler and adult stages

3

Horticultural oil sprays during dormant season

4

Adequate plant watering to reduce stress conditions

5

Natural predator conservation (predatory mites, thrips)

6

Professional assessment for species identification and treatment timing

Recommended Mauget Products

Abacide 2

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against spider mites.

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Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against spider mites.

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