Spider Mites in Kailua Kona
Spider mites are one of the most common garden and farm pests and are found throughout the United States. They will feed on most plants, including houseplants, fruit trees, vines, berries, vegetables, and ornamental plants. These tiny pests are closely related to spiders and ticks and are known to reproduce rapidly. Damage from spider mites can be detrimental to ornamental trees, shrubs, and gardens.
Spider Mite Habitat
Spider mites are active all year, continually feeding and reproducing on plants like house plants that remain green even in the winter. In cold climates where plants lose their leaves, they will rest during the winter and resume feeding and reproducing when the weather warms. To feed on leaves, spider mites pierce the leaf tissue and suck the green liquid that comes out. Leaves will often turn bronze after spider mites have finished feeding. If the plant is heavily infested, the leaves and branches may become covered with a thin webbing.
Spider Mite Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Spider mites thrive in the dry, hot summer months and will reproduce rapidly. Although they are not a threat to humans, they can significantly damage plants by sucking the cell contents from leaves. Spider mite damage on plants first appears as small yellow or brown spots. Extensive infestations can lead to yellowing leaves and stunted growth and become covered in an almost invisible webbing. Damage caused by spider mites can often be worse for plants in times of drought or stress. If you are dealing with spider mites, it’s important to always enlist the help of a professional tick & mite control expert.
