| My vegetable plants were infected all spring and summer with these insects. I understand they can winter in mulch. What can I do to help prevent this problem this fall or next spring. |
| In some parts of Texas, spider mites may feed and reproduce all year on plants that retain their green leaves through the winter. In colder areas and on deciduous trees that drop their leaves, webspinning mites overwinter as red or orange mated females under rough bark scales and in ground litter and trash. They begin feeding and laying eggs when warm weather returns in spring. Spider mites reproduce rapidly in hot weather and commonly become numerous in June through September. If temperature and food supplies are favorable, a generation can be completed in less than a week. Spider mites are generally favored by hot, dusty conditions and are usually found first on trees or plants adjacent to dusty roadways or at margins of gardens. Plants under water stress are also highly susceptible. As foliage quality declines on heavily infested plants, female mites catch wind currents and disperse to other plants. High mite populations may undergo a rapid decline in late summer when predators overtake them, host plant conditions become unfavorable, the weather turns cooler, or following rain. Cultural practices can have a significant impact on spider mites. Dusty conditions often lead to mite outbreaks. Apply water to pathways and other dusty areas at regular intervals. Water-stressed trees and plants are less tolerant of spider mite damage. Be sure to provide adequate irrigation. Mid-season washing of trees and vines with water to remove dust may help prevent serious late-season mite infestations. If a treatment for mites is necessary, use selective materials, preferably insecticidal soap or insecticidal oil. Petroleum-based horticultural oils or neem oils are both acceptable and effective against mites. |
