How To Organically Deal With ‘red Spider Mite’ Infestations?

Question

Hi all, Zone-6b, Mass. I’m wondering if anyone has had any success in battling against the dreaded red spider mite swarms. From mid May to end of June seems like the season for red spider mites for us here. They get all over everything and are a big nuisance. I’d really like to not put the chemicals down if at all possible. I’m trying to build my yard back up as best I can organically. Washing the away does not work, since they just come right back. Anyone have any success with any natural predators for them? Thanks in advance,

Answer 1

Spider mites are very vigorous. Most times, organic solutions will fail, here. There are two things that I can recommend, and they will work if you keep on it according to the label.

The first idea will be to use azadirachtin. This comes from neem oil, but cuts out the chance for burning your plants like raw neem oil will. This is going to be your best defense.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/azadirachtin-vs-neem-oil.htm

The other choice will be predatory mites. The thing about this is that when you have outside plants, there will be nothing to keep them in your garden. This choice is better suited for indoor gardens, but can still work to some degree.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/predatory-mite-pest-contro.htm