Spider Mites/Red Spider: Tiny pests
Identifying features:Tiny, red or yellow insects that leave fine webs on the undersides of leaves.
Damage to plants:Spider mites suck plant juices and cause yellow spots and leaf fall.
Combat strategies:
- Spray plants regularly with water.
- Use predatory mites for biological control.
Whiteflies: Flying pests
Identifying features: Small, white insects that fly up when disturbed.
Damage to plants:Whiteflies suck plant juices, causing yellowing and leaf fall. They multiply quickly and can cause considerable damage within a short period of time if they are not recognized and combated early.
Combat strategies:
- Use yellow sticky traps to catch the flies.
- Spray plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap.