Observation on spider mite

I think almost everybody who grows MGs will have the problem of spider mite sooner or later. In Morocco it was a severe thread, they once killed all my MGs within two weeks till I found out what the problem was. The mite tends to scratch the leaf surface, which is deadly in connection with the sun, as the leaves will dehydrate within no time. So, I was looking forward to growing them in Germany in a "better" climate. I grow indoors, so I was surprised to find spider mite on some of my potted plants. The only way they got there must have been via the bark I use for my soil. I noticed that the nils are more resistant against the pest, the reason being that the hairs on the leaves and stems prevent the mite from moving up easily. With purpurea they have no problem, and the infestation proceeds rapidly. I may experiment with preditory mite, as I am against using chemicals.


Martin

The predatory mites would be interesting to observe in action. Do you have a local supplier of the beneficial critters?

Yes, but I would have to have enough spider mite to feed them. I still keep them under control because I just hate to see my MGs suffer...


Martin

Martin -
Do you use water to blast the little beasts off?

No. I am growing my MGs inside. I could carry all pots to the shower cubicle or sink and spray them there with water, but it's unpractical. I have resorted to using what's been called the recipe"described in the brugmansia" forum, a mix of beer, fertilizer, tea tree oil and dishwater liquid. This serves as a fertilizer and seems to keep the devils off. One has to be careful however, if its too strong it tends to burn the leaves...I've used it in Morocco, where I used to spray with it once a day...

Martin

The commercial product "Safer's Soap" spray works well to kill mites. You can try the mechanical control of squishing them between thumb and finger, satisfying but can stain the skin if you have many of the sap-sucking freaks of nature to kill.

I sometimes get spider mites in my GreenHouse and have had pretty good luck taking the plant (s) to my outside sink and washing them with a waterhose blast - then clean the leaves with joy liquid detergent. I also make sure I water heavily hoping to drown the little beasts left behind. Then I watch the plants carefully for any possible returns.

I know the formula you are talking about and have never tried it on my MGs. I have over 20 Brugs, and haven't tried it on those either. I know 'kenboy' and see him several times a year but haven't cornered him to tell me more about the formula. I also know he has been playing with it to find the right mixtures - He swears by it too.