Mites

There are many different types of mites. The most common are Spider Mites, Red Mites, Two Spotted Mites, Broad Mites. Mites are tiny and the smallest of the sucking pests. This makes them particularly tricky, as they can not be seen by the naked eye. It would take a microscope or magnifying glass to see these little suckers. As with other sucking insects, these will multiply exponentially and take over a plant. Damaging leaf as well as growth points, bringing a plant to its knees. There is however a tell tale sign that these pesky insects leave behind. Deformed leaves can be a sign of nutrient issues, but also a sign of insect damage. Luckily deformed leaves as a result of mite damage is quite distinct and can be seen below. Growth points display a narrowing of the leaves and crescent shaped growth pattern. Older leaves often display a mottles, rash like texture on the surface of the leaf. As is the case with all other sap sucking insects, the infections these little critters bring to the plant are the worst part. They are vectors for bacterial, viral and fungal infections that are terminal for plants. The good news is that mites are relatively slow movers and do not fly. This makes them easy to catch with an insecticide. Thorough and repetitive sprays are essential to get on top of these insects. They lay eggs on the leaves that can hatch long after the adult mites have been killed. So treatment has to be extended for several treatments with specific intervals to be effective.

Leaves showing mite damage manifest as very slender leaves with a drawn in puckered appearance as shown above. Edges of leaves are usually irregular. Leaf shape can also be crescent shaped and drawn to one side. Deformed leaves first appear at the growth tips and will appear further down the plant structure if left untreated. Mites should be sprayed with the likes of BioGrow BioNeem™, Pyrol™ or Neudosan™. The latter two are contact insecticides which may work slightly better for mites. Spray plant after sunset, ensuring to cover the entire plant - over and under leaf and a particular focus on the growth points of the plant. Being organic, improvements may take time to appear. Ensure that you repeat this process several times until new growth appears healthy and clear of any deformation. Always read the product instructions and follow them exactly as given by the manufacturer.