Broad mites on bedding plants
In spring greenhouses, broad mite turns up most on Rieger begonias and New Guinea impatiens, with torenia, exacum, ipomoea and gerbera also hit (OMAFRA). OMAFRA names N. californicus among the predatory mites that can suppress it, introduced early and at high rates through the life of the crop. Leaf curl on New Guinea impatiens in cool, humid conditions can be a physiological disorder, so confirm mites under a microscope first.
At a glance
- Damage
- Twisted, bronzed, brittle shoot tips
- Type
- Sap feeding
- Settings
- Under glass, Indoors, Field
- Threshold
- Any mite or egg confirmed on distorted tips
- Release
- Neoseiulus californicus
- Rate
- High rates on hot spots, released early; no broad-mite rate is published, so ask your supplier
How to confirm it
Needs a microscope or at least a 20× lens: translucent to amber mites on the youngest leaves and buds, and clear eggs studded with rows of white tufts.
Identification, lifecycle, degree days and every control option are on the full Broad mite profile. Not sure it is this pest? Answer four questions about the damage.
Work it out
How many do I need?
Carries Neoseiulus californicus and bedding plants through so nothing is re-entered. Open the calculator →