Spider Mites
Mites are tiny and difficult to see on plants. They range in color from reddish brown to pale with black spots. They feed on foliage and flower buds. Injured foliage may be spotted, turn yellow, or may dry to brown. A fine web may be present on plant surfaces when mites are present. The combination of injury and the webbing collecting dust gives plants a drouthy look. To make a positive diagnosis that mites are present, hold a piece of white paper below the part of the plant suspected to be infested; tap the plant to dislodge dust and mites. The paper will catch the dislodged material. The mites will appear as tiny "dust" specks that move. Crushing the mites with a finger will leave a reddish stain on the paper.
Control
Mite populations increase under hot dry conditions. Rain and high humidity will lower populations naturally. Control of light infestations can be obtained with sprays of water to infested plants; the addition of insecticidal soap will improve the coverage and efficiency of the water. See Chart 1
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