Spider Mites in Central Arkansas
Of all the mite pests, spider mites are the most common and one of the most universal in farm and garden pets. Spider mites feed on fruit trees, berries, houseplants, vines, ornamental plants, and vegetables. While related to insects. Mites are members of the arachnid class like spiders and ticks. Spider mites have eight, tiny legs and are important pets of shrubs, bedding plants, and ornamental trees. Under favorable conditions, spider mites can build up rapidly and seriously threaten plant health.
Spider Mite Habitat
As long as there is green foliage to feed on, spider mites will eat and reproduce all year either indoors or outdoors. When warmer weather returns in the spring, they will begin feeding and laying eggs at their usual rate. Spider mites will feed on the leaves of plants by piercing leaf tissues and sucking the green liquid that oozes out. After feeding, the leaves will appear bronze as the green color has been lost. Leaves and branches that are heavily infested can become covered with an almost invisible webbing.
Spider Mite Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Spider mites reproduce most often in June through September when the weather is hot and dry. Mites will suck the cell contents from the leaves and the result will appear as a yellow or brown spot on the plant leaves. If the plant is heavily infested, the plant’s health will suffer and it may develop completely yellow leaves and stop growing. Another sign of damage will include a spider web on the plant. Damage is usually worse when compounded by water or drought stress.
If you are dealing with spider mites, it’s important to always enlist the help of a professional tick & mite control expert.
