Spruce Spidermites Info & Control
Info / Symptoms:
The Spruce Spidermite is a type of mite that specifically eats spruce and a few other conifers. These mites eat the plant by poking holes in the needles, resulting in small discolored marks left behind with each feeding. As multiple mites feed on a single plant, the needles can rapidly accumulate numerous small yellow spots, commonly referred to as “stippling.” This extensive stippling can give the affected plant a bronzed appearance.
Control Methods:
Wasco Nursery recommends spraying Bug Blaster on plants infested with Spidermites. Plants can be sprayed once every 2-4 weeks as needed, until the insect is gone.
All-Seasons Horticultural Oil is a good organic alternative.
Photos courtesy (University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign)
