Twospotted spider mite

Twospotted spider mites are tiny, round, and ranging from greenish-yellow to red depending on season and host. Heavy webbing on plant foliage appears grayish or tan, trapping dust and giving plants a dirty appearance. Infested leaves become pale yellow with brown feeding spots. This mite attacks a wide range of plants and favors warm, dry conditions in western Washington summer gardens.

Increase humidity by frequent foliar misting or regular overhead irrigation to reduce mite populations. Strong water spray dislodges mites from foliage. Release predatory mites (Phytoseiulus species) for biological control on high-value plants. Apply horticultural oil or sulfur before mite populations explode. Miticides are a last resort; avoid use if natural predators are present.