Spider Mites

      The life cycle from egg to adult can take as little as 5 days during hot weather. All stages - eggs, nymphs and adults live on the plant. They use their needle-like mouthparts to remove plant sap.

Damage

    Spider mites remove the contents of individual leaf cells so plants gradually turn yellow, then brown. There are no visible holes in the leaves.

Assessment

    Infestations generally begin along field margins and move slowly into the field. Problems are most likely during drought situations. Estimate the percent yellowing on the plants and use this table value in the defoliation guide.

Recommendations

Foliar Treatments for Spider Mites