RED SPIDER MITE
Tetranychus urticae - this is a very common pest which causes speckling and bronzing of the leaves. The minute Red Spider Mite are so small as to be almost invisible. They spin fine webs on the underside of the leaves. They rarely attack plants outside, mainly affecting them in protected conditions such as a greenhouse. They thrive in dry and warm conditions.

 

How to Treat Red Spider Mite
First, lower the heat a few degrees and keep the plants sprayed with a fine mist of water - especially the underside of the leaves. Rd spider mite thrive in conditions which are warm and dry.

In enclosed conditions such as greenhouses, introduce the predatory mite Phytoselius persimilis - available from many garden centres nowadays. The parasites just love to make a meal of Red Spider Mite. They can also be obtained online by clicking here from our recommended suppliers. Do not apply pesticides after the predatory mite has been introduced because the pesticides will probably kill the mite.

The red spider mite has become almost entirely resistant to all insecticides available to the general public. However, the advice above should ensure that your plant outgrows the mite. When planted in the garden, the red spider mite will soon be overcome by natural conditions.

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