Strawberries are a favourite amongst Australian gardeners, and for good reason! These versatile fruits are not only delicious and refreshing but also surprisingly easy to grow at home. With a bit of sunshine, water, and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy strawberries throughout the season. However, even the most dedicated gardener can face challenges. A common threat to strawberry plants are spider mites. These tiny pests can wreak havoc on your precious berries. So, how can you protect strawberries from pests naturally?
What are spider mites?
Spider mites are barely visible to the naked eye. They appear as tiny, moving dots on the underside of leaves, where they pierce plant cells to consume their contents. Their feeding activity causes leaves to become mottled and yellowed, with fine webbing often present. A spider mite infestation can significantly reduce your strawberry yield if left unchecked.
The traditional approach to controlling pests, such as spider mites, often involves the use of chemical pesticides. While these products can help, they may also pose a risk to the environment, beneficial insects, and your health. Furthermore, many pests develop resistance to pesticides over time, making them less effective in the long run. Biological control agents offer a safer and more sustainable alternative. By introducing natural predators to your garden, you can create a balanced ecosystem where pests are kept in check without the need for harmful chemicals. If chemical support is absolutely necessary, we recommend you choose selective products that will cause minimal disruption to predatory mites and other biocontrol agents.
Is there a biological control solution for spider mites?
Persimilis predatory mites are a powerful ally in the fight against spider mites. These tiny, natural enemies feed exclusively on spider mites, effectively controlling their populations. They are regularly used on commercial strawberry farms, where they have proven to be highly effective.
When to release Persimilis predatory mites
Release Persimilis as soon as you notice the first signs of spider mites. Early detection and prompt intervention are essential.
How to release Persimilis predatory mites
Persimilis predatory mites are mixed with vermiculite and packed in cardboard tubes. Gently shake the tube to distribute mites evenly. Remove the end cap and cloth, then replace the cap to use as a shaker. Distribute mites over infested plants, focusing on areas with high pest populations. Release preferably during cooler periods (morning or afternoon).
What to do after release
Avoid spraying pesticides or other chemicals after releasing Persimilis, as these can harm the predators. Misting the plants regularly provides much-needed humidity for the mites. Persimilis may be challenging to see initially but will spread quickly so mark release points for observation.
Check release sites regularly for predator and pest numbers and look for Persimilis eggs near spider mite colonies as a sign of establishment. Expect an initial increase in spider mites before the predator population grows.
Recommended release rates
The recommended release rate will depend on the severity of the infestation.
- Multiple smaller releases are generally more effective than a single large release.
- Release rates depend on crop and pest severity.
- Consult our website for specific recommendations.
- Our goal is to establish a self-sustaining beneficial population for longer-term pest reduction.
By introducing Persimilis predatory mites into your garden, you can protect your strawberries from spider mites without resorting to harmful chemicals. These beneficial mites are a safe and environmentally friendly solution that can help you achieve a healthy and bountiful strawberry harvest.
For advice on managing pests in your garden, visit our website. View product information on Persimilis predatory mites to learn more about this effective biological control agent.
