Grass mites cause extremely painful bites in humans and animals and can seriously spoil the fun in your own green space. The pest prefers to stay wherever grass can be found. In this article you will find out how you can successfully contain the mite plague and protect yourself.
How can you prevent grass mites in the garden?
To prevent grass mites, you should scarify in spring, apply lime nitrogen fertilization or grass mite concentrate in May and always keep a well-maintained, short-mown lawn. Rubber boots and long clothing help prevent stings.
Prevent grass mite infestation
If your garden was already colonized by the agile mites last year, you can prevent a new infestation with lime nitrogen fertilization at the beginning of May. It is important to mow the lawn beforehand and apply the fertilizer in dry weather.
Alternatively, you can apply grass mite concentrate, which is available from various manufacturers in garden shops. Immediately before using the spray, the meadow should be shortened so that the grass mites are sufficiently wetted. For optimal results, it is necessary to repeat the treatment after about a week.
Unfortunately, the pyrethrins contained in the products are harmful to aquatic organisms. If you have a garden pond, you must be extremely careful when spraying it. The concentrate is not dangerous to bees.
Scarifying as a preventive measure
Grass mites feel particularly comfortable on mossy grass areas. That's why you should scarify thoroughly in spring:
- Always work on the dry lawn. If you have a grass mite infestation, you should wear rubber boots and long trousers tucked into your shoes to protect yourself.
- Mow the lawn using the lowest setting of the lawnmower.
- Adjust the blades so that the turf is cut two to three millimeters.
- Move the device quickly over the area in longitudinal and then crossways.
Preventing Stings
In the warm summer months, the long trousers and long-sleeved tops recommended to protect against mites are not very comfortable to wear.
Alternatively, you can use insect repellents against mosquitoes and ticks, which also help against mites. After spending time outdoors, you should remove and wash all clothing immediately. Shower thoroughly so that any remaining animals are quickly rinsed from the skin.
Tip
If you have grass mites in your garden, you should immediately dispose of the grass clippings in the compost or organic waste bin. Unfortunately, the material colonized with mites is not suitable as a valuable mulching material.
