Spider mites, yet tiny, are a huge problem for growers. A mite infestation can potentially become a long term problem of untreatable viruses and bacterial infections when not handled correctly and in time. This article will give you some insights and tips as to what you can do to prevent and handle a spider mite infestation.
The Two Spotted Spider Mite initially is not easily noticed and quick to infest. While mites live on the undersides of the foliage, early visual symptoms include flecking* of the leaves and a dusty feel on the upper and lower surface of the leaves. This “dust” is the exoskeletons of the mites. Later, a more obvious webbing appears, usually near the new, tender growth. Once the mites diminish the plants quality, the females catch a ride in the wind and move onward to juicier plants.
Mites come to maturity two weeks after hatching. At maturity the female mite can lay thousands of eggs which takes only 3 days to hatch. This is how the mites go from being almost unnoticeable, to a full-blown infestation. Not only do the mites cause stress for the plant, but the quality of final product is impacted. This insect moves from plant to plant, spreading pathogens along the way. If the mite infestation is in a room with stock/mother plants, then this can potentially be a serious long term problem of untreatable viruses and bacterial infections.
