tiny red spiders have invaded my patio HELP

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mtrimboli Valley Stream, NY May 22, 2010

Tiny red spiders or spider mites are all over everything. Chairs, tables, etc. I tried to hose them down with the garden hose, but they reappeared after they dried. What can I use to get rid of them? We can't even sit in on the patio. I have small children and pets, so nothing toxic. Please HELP

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imzadi Jackson, SC(Zone 8a) May 22, 2010

insecticidail soap its made with seeweed extract and a few others one the market are safe. use soap and water

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Jim41 Delhi, LA May 22, 2010

imzadi is right on. Poison won't hardly kill a spider anyway. A spider has lungs, so fill them with soapy water and drown the joker.

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BSD Conway, SC May 22, 2010



Had this same problem a month ago. I used the insecticidal soap but had to resort to a good miticide. Below is some info from our local Extension office. They are called Southern Red Spider Mites. We noticed them after we had cut back our azaleas.

Clemson Extension Office:
An easy way to detect spider mites is to take a white sheet of paper and wipe the undersides of several leaves. If mites are present, there will be red streaks on the paper.

Control: Natural enemies of mites, such as ladybird beetles (ladybugs), thrips and predaceous mites usually keep mite populations reduced. While pesticides are available, their misuse often makes the problem worse by killing off the mites’ natural enemies. If the population level is low, early season mite infestations can often be controlled with insecticidal soap (such as Safer brand). Insecticidal soaps offer no residual activity, and thorough coverage of both the tops and bottoms of leaves is important. Test insecticidal soap on azalea varieties before applying to all plants. Similarly, a spray of horticultural oil (such as Sunspray Ultra-Fine Spray Oil) can help reduce infestation levels. A recommended miticide for use on azaleas is fenbutatin oxide (Ortho Systemic Insect Killer. It is best to alternate the miticides that you use to decrease the chance of mites developing resistance. As with all pesticides, read and follow all label directions and precautions.

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