Controlling spider mites

We know that the hot and dry temperatures plaguing much of the Midwest create optimal conditions for a spider mite problem to occur.  In fact – mites are already starting to cause an issue in some areas.  Purdue University entomologist Christian Krupke says a simple rain could correct the problem. 

But if that doesn’t happen soon – farmers may have to use other options.  “Diomethoate and Lorsban are two of them,” he says.  “Often if the problem is encountered early enough just the edge of the field can be sprayed with a ground sprayer just going around the edge of the field to hold the mites and kill them on the edge of the field so they can’t move in.”

Krupke tells Brownfield because of the damage spider mites could inflict at this stage in the growing season; farmers are better off treating them early on rather than waiting.