Neil,
Biocontrol of red and 2 spot (virtually the same mite) can be done with both
predatory mites and a midge called Feltiella acarasuga (sp.). P. persimilis is
good at controlling mites, Feltiella works well also. The predatory midge shows
a tendency to remain in the pupal form until spider mite populations increase
again, the adults feed on pollen and honeydew and lay their eggs IN the spider
mite infestation. P. persimilis is blind and has to find the mite infestation
and will die off when the mite population is wiped out. A. degenerens, fallacis
and californicus do well with mites as well.
Despite it's cost, Avid is a very good miticide. It is translaminar, meaning
that it is locally systemic. Good coverage of at least the upper leaf surface
will work on mites, the A.I. (active ingredient) will be absorbed by the leaf
and will translocate to the other side of the leaf (upper to lower).
Another possible control is the use of horticultural grade sulphur. I had a
flat mite infestation not too long ago and could not afford Avid. I did some
research and found that sulphur will kill some species of mites, including flat
mites. I have so far only done one spray and the kill rate was about 95%. I'm
going to do another suplhur spray tomorrow to kill off the eggs that hatched
after the initial spray.
If you want to stay bio and not go chemical, I'd recommend using a few of the
above mentioned biocontrols. In my experience, you are better off to use more
than one bio, simply because they all have different requirements in order for
them to succeed.
Email me directly if you have any other questions at: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Cody Cruise
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