Spider mites usually congregate on the undersides of the leaves, and if the infestation is severe enough, youäó»ll see the webbing there. Another test is to hold a piece of white paper under a branch and shake it. If you see any tiny specks fall on the paper, and after a few seconds the tiny specks begin moving, those are mites. Symptoms of damage include flecking, discoloration (bronzing) and scorching of leaves. Injury can lead to leaf color loss and even plant death. Natural enemies include small lady beetles, predatory mites, minute pirate bugs, big-eyed bugs and predatory thrips. Spider mites are barely visible to the naked eye, and are difficult to control. Insecticidal soap can help, especially if the problem is caught early and the leaves, both sides, are sprayed well or spray with a strong stream of water. Or look for another product with “spider mites” listed on the label and make sure it is safe for strawberries. A straight insecticide will be ineffective because spider mites are arachnids, not insects, but there are organic controls such as Natria Insect, Disease and Mite Control.
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