Evergreen Mites in West Bloomfield Landscapes

West Bloomfield, like many areas with evergreen trees, may experience issues with evergreen mites in landscape plantings. These tiny arachnids, also known as spruce spider mites or conifer spider mites, can infest various evergreen species, causing damage to the foliage.

Evergreen mites typically feed on the needles of coniferous trees, extracting chlorophyll and other plant fluids. This feeding activity can lead to discoloration, bronzing, or yellowing of the needles, and in severe cases, needle drop and branch dieback.

Evergreen mites are most active during cooler seasons, particularly in spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate. Spraying for evergreen mites is usually done between late April to early June and again in September to early November.

To manage evergreen mite infestations in West Bloomfield, Owen Tree recommends several strategies:

1. Regular monitoring: Inspect evergreen trees for signs of mite damage, especially during spring and fall.
2. Proper tree care: Maintain healthy trees and shrubs through appropriate watering, fertilization, and pruning practices.
3. Natural predators: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory mites, which feed on spider mites.
4. Water sprays: Use forceful water sprays to dislodge mites from the foliage.
5. Horticultural oils: Apply dormant oils or summer oils to suffocate the mites.
6. Miticides: In severe cases, and for the quickest level of control, miticides are applied as a foliar spray.

If you notice discoloration of any of your evergreen trees or shrubs contact Owen Tree & Lawn Care at 800-724-6680. An ISA Certified Arborist will inspect your plants and suggest appropriate actions to keep your landscape evergreens green and healthy.