It is not uncommon for houseplants to be attacked by annoying pests. If you have discovered small animals that are damaging your plants, you should do something about it. Ideally, you don't resort to chemicals straight away, but rather use biological agents, such as predatory mites, which simply eat up the pests.
What are predatory mites?
Predatory mites look like pests, but they are actuallyBeneficial insectsThe small arachnids (Arachnda) can be used specifically againstpestssuch as springtails. Theyeat bottom-dwelling creatures. This is a particularly good way to combat heavy pest infestations.
What does the predatory mite look like in the potting soil?
Predatory mites aresmall spider-like animals, about half a millimeter in size, live on the ground and live about 25 days. They prefer to live on or in the upper layer of soil and hunt their prey on the leaves. Because they move particularly quickly, they can easily take down even larger prey.
Which pests can predatory mites be used against?
Predatory mites are used for natural pest control in order to avoid chemical agents. Different genera of predatory mites prefer different prey items. Before you buy, pay attention to which pests you want to combat. Here is a small list:
- Amblyseius (prefers thrips, whiteflies and soft skin mites)
- Hypoaspis (prefers the fungus gnat and other species of mosquitoes and their larvae)
- Phytoseiulus and Typhlodromus (prefers the spider mite)
Predatory mites are often used in viticulture or in greenhouses.
How do I combat predatory mite pests?
Use the predatory mites as soon as possible after purchase, as these are creatures that die quickly without food. Apply the mitesdirectly to the affected parts of the plant so that they can start working immediately. Ensure good humidity to support the mites in their work. If there is a severe infestation, you should release new predatory mites after about a week. The beneficial insects may need a few weeks to rid your houseplant of unwanted animals.
What are the advantages of using predatory mites on potting soil?
Predatory mites are abiological pest controland canalso be used preventatively. This way you can easily avoid the hassle of repotting an infected plant. Even if you don't discover any pests but are attacked frequently throughout the year, you can apply the little helpers to your plants in spring.
Tip
Predatory mites visiting
Just like other animals, you can also “catch” predatory mites from outside. However, you should be happy about their visit because they eat all sorts of pests. Once they have eaten all the animals, the predatory mites also die due to a lack of food. As a result, you are pest-free.
