Spider mites     ARGHHHHHHH!!!!

jaf1060

Well, my second bonsai tree has become infested with spider mites. I have used an all purpose fungicide/pesticide to remedy the situation. Will this take care of the little buggers? I have read that they are tough to beat and the best way to get rid of them is to remove the affected areas. Unfortunately this is a great deal of the foliage on my 3 year old juniper. Should I chop, or should I eradicate the vermine with chemicals?
What is the best way to prevent another occurence? Regular treatment with what sort of pesticide?
Phoenix X

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Dr.Bonsai

Hello Phoenix,

There are definitely two extremes of thought with respect to insecticide, the free sprayers and the no-sprayers. Many of these chemicals are long acting with potential health risks and hazards to the environment and groundwater, and they harm beneficial insects and pests indiscriminately.

That said, the use of chemicals should be considered after all other methods have been exhausted, and they should be used in exact accordance with the products' labeling, ensuring that adequate ventilation, low wind situation and skin and eye protection are provided. *Unused chemicals should be disposed of appropriately.

Malathion is extremely effective at eradicating aphids and spider mites. *Be sure not to use it in the vicinity of fish, pets or children.

bonsaial1

You should also use a strong jet of water on your trees daily. This will do a lot in removing pests before they set on.

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