Spider Mites

This common pest affects several different plants indoors and out. They love a low level of humidity, so are often prevelant in hot dry weather. Symptoms are ‘stippling’ on leaves (tiny dots) that as the mites feed more and more produces a rusty brown/red haze over the foliage, yellow leaves, and in heavy infestations fine webbing.

The mites can overwinter in various stages; either under debris or on bark of host plants. They become active again in spring as foliage emerges.

To control mites, as days warm and hot, dry weather is expected, keep a close eye out for mites in sunny areas of your garden. By tapping branches over a clean white piece of paper you can often see the tiny mites. Keep plants well misted to keep humidity up, and if a high amount are noticed, spray plants with End All or Ambush insecticides. Ensure a thorough leaf clean up in autumn beneath all plants.