Twospotted spider mites and banks mites are tiny little pests that can be found eating plants and turfgrass throughout Colorado. Although they’re small, these little bugs can cause a lot of destruction, when left to their own devices.
Understanding Twospotted Spider Mites and Banks Grass Mites
Twospotted spider mites and banks grass mites are pests that are common in the Denver area. These tiny bugs are very destructive to turfgrass and many other plants. Severe infestation can lead to stunted growth and even the death of some plants. There are certain preventative measures for keeping them at bay and a few pesticides that will remove the problem completely.
Signs of Infestation
Twospotted spider mites and banks grass mites leave tiny white or yellow spots on leaves and blades of grass where they feed, and eventually, the leaves may drop and plants can die. Webbing is another sign that you’ve got an infestation on your hands.
Environmental Factors Contributing to Winter Infestations
Hot, dry summers are a breeding ground for twospotted spider mites and banks grass mites. The eggs overwinter on plants and, once hatched, begin to feed in the spring and summer when temperatures get very warm.
Prevention Strategies
The best way to prevent mites from infesting your plants and turfgrass is by keeping them healthy, and properly watered. Pick drought-hardy plants for your yard, especially in seasons of drought. Twospotted spider mites and banks grass mites thrive on plants that are stressed, so your best defense is a healthy lawn and landscape.
If you find yourself dealing with a mite infestation, it’s best to call your local landscaping company. At American Arbor Care, we’ve got the training, tools, and pesticides to ensure that your plants and lawn are healthy and mite-free. Contact us for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I identify Twospotted Spider Mite and Banks Grass Mite?
Twospotted spider mites are about 1/50th of an inch long, yellow-orange in color, with a dark spot on each side of their bodies. Banks grass mites are similar in size, but they may appear green throughout the summer and red when food is scarce.
What are the signs of mite infestation on plants?
Both twospotted spider mites and banks grass mites create webbing on plants and grass that have been infested. This is a telltale sign of the presence of mites.
Can mites survive in cold temperatures?
Mites lay eggs that survive the winter on plants. When temperatures rise again, the eggs hatch and new mites are released.
Are there natural predators that can help control mite populations?
Twospotted spider mites and bank grass mites have many natural enemies, including predatory mites, thrips, and pirate bugs.
What are the best organic methods for mite control in winter?
Keep plants well-watered, especially during periods of drought. Mites thrive in hot and dry conditions.
Is it possible to prevent mite infestations without using chemicals?
Selecting drought-resistant plants and/or watering them often is the best way to avoid a mite infestation. In many cases, that’s all you need to avoid problems. If a mite infestation does occur, you can use a high-pressured water sprayer to get rid of them.
Should I remove affected plants to prevent mite spread?
In most cases, this isn’t necessary. Simply wash mites from affected plants with a high-powered water sprayer and use chemical control if necessary. Your local landscaping company can help mitigate the problem and eliminate the mites from your property.