Mites are tiny arachnids that can be a serious pest for rose crops. The most common type of mite that infests roses is the two-spotted spider mite. These mites are very small, and they are difficult to see with the naked eye. Mites pierce the leaves of roses with their mouthparts to feed on the sap. This feeding activity causes small, yellow or white speckles to appear on the upper surface of the leaves. As the infestation worsens, the leaves may turn bronzed or grayish-green, and webbing may become visible on the undersides of the leaves.
Scientific name: Tetranychus cinnabarinus
Type: Sucking Pest
Target: Underside of the leaves
Damage: Yellowing of leaves and curl
Identification:
Small size: Mites are so small that they are difficult to see with the naked eye, they present on the undersides of leaves with a magnifying glass.
Piercing-sucking mouthparts: Mites have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to feed on the sap of rose plants. This feeding can damage the leaves and flowers of roses, and can stunt the growth of the plants.
Fast reproduction: Mites can reproduce very quickly, which can make them difficult to control.
Webbing: Some species of mites, such as spider mites, will produce webbing on the undersides of leaves. This webbing can help to protect the mites from predators and harsh environmental conditions.
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
Temperature: Many mite species reproduce faster in warm temperatures (between 70-85°F).
Humidity: Mites thrive in dry conditions (below 50% relative humidity).
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
- Small, yellow or brown spots on the upper surfaces of leaves
- Fine webbing on the undersides of leaves
- Yellowing and wilting of leaves
- Stunted growth of the plant
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
| Products |
Technical Name |
Dosage |
| Mite Free |
fenpyroximate 5% SC |
1.0 - 1.5 Ml / Liter Water |
| OZIL |
Spiromesifen 22.9% SC |
150-200 ml/acre |
| KACIN |
abamectin 1.9% EC |
150 ml for 200 liters of water per acre. |
