Red Spider Mites: How To Protect Your Cactus

Red spider mites are something that can destroy your whole cactus. This spider mites look small, tiny with eight legged arachnids. They usually feed upon the plants. These mites are very difficult to control. As they multiply rapidly especially in warm climates. And they can make a resistance against the pesticide.  If they get a good climate and the right conditions then they can double their number within 3 days.

Spider mites can enter your cactus through new plants in your garden. Therefore, always try to take some precaution before putting a new plant in your garden. If once spider mites are introduced then it’s very difficult to remove. Once fully grown, these mites weave a delicate silk. This allows wind-borne transportation to neighboring plants. It is also possible for them to burrow under the ground and emerge when the weather is right.

 Symptoms Of Red Spider Mites On Cactus

Webbing

Red spider mites usually spin fine white webs on cactus. You can find specially on the stem and leaves of the cactus. 

Yellowing

The red spider mites generally feed on the sap of your cactus. So, if your cactus is turning yellow or some yellow colored patches on its stem or leaves then it can be a symptom.

Moving Dots

If you carefully watch your cactus and find some tiny moving dots. Then you should know that they are red spider mites.

Causes Of Red Spider Mites On Cactus

Warm And Dry Condition

In areas with little humidity, red spider mites are more prevalent. As they like hot, dry weather. Summertime, with its dry air and high temperatures, is when this is especially true.

Water Stress

If your cactus is suffering from stress by overwatering or by underwatering. Then there is a chance of having red spider mites on the cactus. Because stress plants have more chances of having pests.

Insecticide

If you use insecticide in your cactus then it may be a good place for spider mites. Because using insecticide can kill other pests so they can grow quickly.

Poor Air Circulation

Poor air circulation is the best condition for red spider mites to increase their number. 

 Infected Plants

Plants that already have red mites can spread to the other plants. So, this can also infect your cactus.

How To Control Red Spider Mites On Cactus?

Cultural Controls

Include maintaining appropriate cleanliness, increasing air circulation, and pruning areas of concern.

Chemical Controls

Apply neem oil, insecticidal soap, or miticides made especially for red spider mites.

Natural Predators

Like ladybugs or lacewings can be introduced to prey on mites. And they act as biological controllers.

IPM

Combining biological, chemical, and cultural treatments together. It can provides an all-encompassing strategy known as integrated pest management (IPM).

Conclusion

Cacti may experience serious damage from it. A prevalent and severe insect. Infecting cacti with these microscopic, spider-like organisms that feed on their sap. It can result in premature defoliation, yellowing or bronzing of the leaves, and death.

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