Eriophyid Mites

Garden Problems ,

Eriophyid mites are very small (0.1-0.2 mm). There are many different types that infest a wide range of plants. The often cause abnormal structures on plants such as felty patches, withches broom, galls, blisters and distortion of new growth.

Identify the problem
Eriophyid mites are very difficult to see because of their tiny size. However, they can cause structural distortions of infested plants. The distortions will depend on the mite type and the plant. Distortions can include felty patches on leaves (erinea) which is often mistaken for fungal disease, withches' broom, galls, leaf blisters, or terminal tip distortion.
How to solve the problem
To get rid of erophyid mites follow these steps:
1. Check plants regularly. Under favourable conditions (hot), mite populations build up rapidly so early recognition and action are essential if you are to avoid problems.
2. Clear away weeds in your garden as they may harbour mites.
3. For best control, also use Organic Super Spraying Oil to control mites. Apply 7-10 days before bud break and again at bud break. It must be applied directly to the mites as it works by suffocating them. Apply in cool dull weather and ensure complete coverage of all parts of the affected plants including the undersides of leaves where spider mites usually live.
4. Organic Super Sulphur will also control mites and can give good preventative control when used in late winter. See how to carry out a winter care program when your plants are dormant.
5. It is also beneficial to hose the leaves of affected pants with water to keep them cool. Mite thrive in hot conditions and 'hate' cold. Hose down your plants with a steady stream of water every 3 days for 9 days.
6. On ornamentals that are still heavily infested, spray upper and lower sides of affected leaves with PLANThealth Spectrum, or Spectrum Plus.