Greenhouse Mites (Spider Mites)
Microscopic eight-legged vampires that turn your plants into a desert!
Physical characteristics
Greenhouse mites, such as the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), are microscopic arthropods, 0.3-0.5 mm in size. They have an oval body and four pairs of legs. Their color varies from greenish to yellowish or reddish, often with dark spots.
Biology and behavior
They develop extremely rapidly in warm and dry conditions. Females lay eggs on the underside of leaves. The entire life cycle can be completed in 5-20 days, depending on conditions. They form fine webs on plants, which they use for protection and movement.
Harm
Mites pierce plant cells and suck out their contents, causing tiny yellowish or whitish spots on leaves. In severe infestations, leaves turn yellow, dry up, and fall off. They reduce photosynthesis and the overall vitality of plants. They can cause significant economic losses in greenhouse production.
What you can do
Regularly inspect plants, especially the underside of leaves. Maintain relatively high air humidity, as mites prefer dry conditions. Use a strong jet of water to wash mites off plants. Remove heavily infested leaves or plants. Encourage natural enemies like predatory mites.
Professional control
Our approach includes integrated pest management. We conduct a detailed inspection and identification of mite species. We apply biological control, using predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis. If necessary, we use selective acaricides, tailored to the specific crop and pest development stage. We offer monitoring and prevention programs, including optimizing greenhouse conditions. We train staff for early detection and proper management of mite populations.