Spider Mite Control

Red Spider Mites are part of the arachnid family and are common in houseplants, crops under cover and outdoor plants in the warmer summer months. They feed on leaf cells starting from the underside of the leaves causing cell death and speckles on the leaves.

Spider mites are very small – sometimes too small to see. Despite being known as red spider mites, they are light green in colour but only become red/ dark orange when they are less active. Mites begin life with six legs but will develop two more as they grow. They produce a fine silk webbing which is used as a protective barrier.

Identifying Spider Mite Damage

Fine, pale mottling with brown speckles will be seen on the upper surface of the leaves. You may notice tiny yellow/green mites, eggshells and tiny white cast skins. If you place a piece of white paper under the surface of the leaf and tap or shake the plant, you will see the mites as tiny specks moving across the paper.

When the plant is badly affected, a fine silk webbing can be seen on the surface of the plant - spun by the adult spider mites. Green colour from the leaves can be lost, and the leaves will become dry and eventually fall off as they can no longer photosynthesize.

What is Biological Spider Mite Control?

Biological controls are non-chemical treatments that rely on the natural enemies of pests. In the case of Spider Mite control, there are two mite predators Phytoseiulus persimilis and Amblyseius andersoni.

Both species are very small predatory mites. Amblyseius andersoni controls spider mites by attacking and sucking the insides of their prey and will give good control indoors and outdoors. Amblyseius andersoni also feeds on thrips.

Phytoseiulus persimilis females lay eggs on the spider mite hot spot. The hatched larvae then eat up to five adults a day or 20 eggs a day depending on the stage – until they become adult mites.

Biological spider mite control is a highly effective, safe treatment that can be used on a wide range of affected plants. It is safe for pets and other wildlife and the perfect choice for organic gardeners.

Storage

• After delivery, please check the product for abnormalities and report any issues to Agrigem within 24 hours.
• As this product is perishable, it is preferable to use immediately after receipt, but always within 48 hours. If you are not using the product immediately:
  • Store Phytoseiulus persimilis at a temperature of between 8°C and 10°C.
  • Store Amblyseius andersoni in a horizontal position and at a temperature of between 15°C and 18°C.
• Do not store either product near bumblebee hives.
• If the product is stored longer and/or differently to the above, Agrigem will not be liable for loss of quality.
• Use the entire pack.

How to Choose the Correct Spider Mite Control

Select your species depending on current temperatures. Phytoseiulus persimilis can be used when the temperature is between 15ºC and 30ºC. It is available in sizes to treat areas of 100m² and 500m².

Amblyseius andersoni can be used at lower and higher temperatures – from 6°C up to 40°C. Ideally use between April and May. It is available in sizes to treat areas of 25m² and 75m².

Application

• Keep products in a horizontal position.
• Keep Amblyseius andersoni at a temperature of between 15°C and 18°C.
• Keep Phytoseiulus persimilis at a temperature of between 8°C and 10°C.
• Use both products within 48 hours of receipt.
• Both products can be spread over the leaves of affected plants.
• Ideally use in humid conditions and medium temperatures.
• If the product comes in sachets, separate them carefully and hand them on the stems of affected plants according to instructions.
• Do not expose to sunlight or other pesticides.
• Use both products in areas of humidity for best results.
• For further advice or guidance contact our specialists on 01522 246491.