Description:

• Warm and dry weather conditions are favourable for the occurrence of red spider mite infestation.

Damage Symptoms:

• Red spider mites are found in large colonies on the underside of leaves, protected by silk webbing.
• Yellowing of leaves between veins can be observed.
• Leaves develop characteristic blotches, which become whitish.
• Later, the entire affected leaf becomes discoloured and dries up.
• In severe cases, complete defoliation may occur.

Preventive Measures:

• Remove and destroy infected plant parts.
• Spray neem oil.

Control Measures:

• Spray wettable sulfur (3-5 g/l) or dicofol (2.7 ml/l).