How do I get rid of mites on Holly Bushes?

Question

Underneath the leaves are white, sticky, egg sacs – at least 4 per leaf. I see what could be spider mites everywhere – little red dots moving about in spider webs (there are tiny spiders chasing these red mites). My bushes are totally eaten up in spots but I do see new growth. Any comments would be appreciated. The tiny elongated egg sacks are sticky when touched but I see nothing emerging from them.

Answer 1

You’ve got a regular little mite city going there, don’t you. The sticky white egg sacks are probably mealy bugs — spider mite eggs are too small to see. The tiny spiders chasing the little red dots are just two different sizes of spider mites. At this point, you need to bring out the heavy artillery; don’t waste time trying to blast them off with a hose. I’m going to give you an article about getting rid of the pesky little buggers, but whatever you use, be sure to use it 4 times at 7-10 day intervals.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/spider-mite-treatment.htm
If you use a commercial miticide, you’ll still need to spray for the mealy, as miticide won’t touch them. Or you can use a neem oil and/or soap, which will hit them both.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/mealybugs-white-residue-on-plants-leaves.htm