Effective Spider Mite Control on Ornamentals

For early control of two-spotted spider mite, and other mite pests, Koppert Biological Systems has developed the new Spical Ulti-Mite sachet, which is a follow-on from the revolutionary Swirski Ulti-Mite sachet.

Spical Ulti-Mite applied to ornamental crops before spider mite is found allows the predatory mites to search and find emerging spider mites. With Spical Ulti-Mite in place, helping to control spider mite, it is time to apply Spidex (Phytoseiulus persimilis) to and around any spider mite infestations. Spidex has long been used for effective spider mite control, but with the added use of Spical Ulti-Mite, control is greatly improved.

Use Spical Ulti-Mite for:

two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)

fruit spider mite (Panonychus ulmi)

begonia mite (Tarsonemus pallidus)

broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus)

citrus red mite (Panonychus citri)

The Spical Ulti-Mite sachet is highly resistant to drought and moisture in glasshouse crops. This patented biocontrol system is the perfect environment for N. californicus to establish its population. The sachets are hung within the crop by the means of a strengthened hook, which gives greater durability. The sachets also have an exit hole through which the mites will disperse into the crop. Due to the smart design of the Spical Ulti-Mite sachets, they also serve as a point of discussion when used in botanical collections.

Neoseiulus californicus shows a preference for immature stages (eggs, larvae and nymphs) of spider mite. However adult females of the predatory mite feed on all stages of spider mite. Neoseiulus californicus is an essential first line of defence in the control of spider mite.

Trials have proven that Spical Ulti-Mite consistently delivers higher numbers of predatory mites under challenging conditions. Each sachet may produce up to 3000 mites over several weeks.

Use Spidex for:

two-spotted spider mite (T. urticae)

all stages, preferring younger stages

Spidex is supplied in either 100 ml bottles containing 2000, or 500 ml bottles containing 10,000 predatory mites. The bottles have a dosage cap that aids correct application.

Apply Spidex onto and around spider mite infested leaves.

The predatory mites pierce the prey with their mouthparts and suck out the contents. Phytoseiulus persimilis is highly specific and is only effective against spider mites. The damage and the webbing produced by spider mites helps the predator locates its prey. Although P. persimilis has no eyes, it detects webs by touch, and leaf damage by scent. The plant reacts to the effect of spider mite feeding by producing volatile chemical substances that act as signals to the predatory mite.