Spider Mite Identification & Prevention Guide

What are spider mites?

Spider mites are arachnids and are related to spiders and ticks; like all arachnids, spider mites have two main body parts and eight legs. Spider mites are tiny: less than 1.27mm long! To the naked eye, these mites look like moving dots. They have yellow-colored, oval-shaped bodies with two red eyes near their heads. These mites are commonly referred to as web-spinning mites because most species produce silky, spider-like webbing.

Are spider mites dangerous?

Spider mites are garden pests and pose no danger to people. They feed by sucking out the fluids found in plant leaves, causing damage to the leaves in the process. A small infestation of spider mites is usually no cause for concern, but a large infestation can negatively impact plant growth and crop yield.

Why do I have a spider mite problem?

If your yard provides an ample source of food, you will probably have spider mites. These pests will feed on a variety of plants including fruit trees, ornamental plants, vegetable plants, vines, and even berries. Spider mites can become a problem in a small garden, on a large commercial farm, or any suitable environment in between.

Where will I find spider mites?

Spider mites live together in colonies, usually underneath leaves. These arachnids prefer hot, dry weather conditions and inhabit plants and trees at the edge of gardens or along roadways. You will also find them in large numbers in crop fields. Spider mites reproduce fastest in the summer and early fall when the weather is hot and food is plentiful.

How do I get rid of spider mites?

For home and business owners who want to eliminate spider mites from their property, partnering with a professional is the best way to be successful. At Jury Pest Services, we provide exceptional pest solving strategies that will eliminate spider mites and prevent their return. Our green pest control solutions protect the environment, while still being effective against our area’s toughest pests. Serving Richmond County in Georgia and Aiken County in South Carolina, Jury Pest Services is committed to our customers and to providing trustworthy pest control services. We also provide our professional services to homes and businesses in Columbia County, GA, Edgefield County, SC, Barnwell County, SC, and beyond. To learn more about our pest control services, contact Jury Pest Services today!

How can I prevent spider mites in the future?

In addition to the professional solutions you can find at Jury Pest Services, use the following tips to help prevent problems with spider mites:

• Inspect the leaves of plants for spider mites before purchasing them from a plant nursery or store.

• Make sure garden areas and the soil around trees are well-watered.

• Contact the professionals here at Jury Pest Services at the first signs of spider mites on your property.