Mites are some of the most frustrating pests gardeners face. You may notice your plants looking unhealthy, such as leaves turning yellow, speckled, or webbed, but not actually see any insects. That’s because mites are tiny, often too small to spot without a magnifying glass. Left untreated, they can quickly multiply and cause significant damage to your garden.
The good news? With the right approach and the right products, you can control mites effectively and keep your plants thriving.
In this article, we’ll explore:
What Are Mites?
How to Tell If You Have Mites
Why Mite Control Is Important
Effective Ways to Control Mites
Recommended Products for Mite Control
Garden Nursery Products
Mites are tiny arachnids (related to spiders and ticks) that feed on plants by piercing leaf tissue and sucking out sap. This weakens the plant, reduces growth, and in severe infestations, can kill it. Common garden mites in Australia include spider mites and eriophyid mites, both of which thrive in warm, dry conditions.
Because mites are so small, the damage they cause is often the first clue:
Stippled or speckled leaves
Yellowing foliage
Fine webbing on the underside of leaves
Stunted plant growth
Holding a sheet of white paper under leaves and tapping them can reveal mites crawling across the surface.
Unchecked mite infestations spread quickly, especially in hot and dry weather. A small outbreak can escalate into a garden-wide problem in days, making early treatment essential. Beyond aesthetics, mite damage can reduce plant health and yields, which is especially concerning for fruit trees, ornamentals, and vegetables.
Cultural practices: Keep plants healthy with proper watering and nutrition, as stressed plants are more vulnerable.
Regular monitoring: Check the underside of leaves during warm months.
Chemical solutions: Use miticides and insecticides specifically designed to target mites for effective control.
We recommend trusted solutions that are proven effective against mites:
Vista 200SC Insecticide – A broad-spectrum solution that tackles mites along with other garden pests.
Macromite Insecticide – Specially formulated for controlling mite infestations, offering long-lasting protection.
Stealth Miticide – A targeted miticide designed to effectively eliminate mites without harming your plants.
These products work best when used as part of an integrated pest management strategy. Always follow label directions for safe and effective use.
Garden Nursery Products offers expert advice and proven products to help you take back control from mites and keep your plants healthy all year round.
Ready to protect your garden? Visit our store today to get the right solutions for mite control or shop online.
