Peach: European red mite

categories: Peach Peach Insects Tree Fruits

last review date: 2025-12-03 10:06

Biology

Several species of spider mites may be found on peaches, including the European red mite, the two-spotted spider mite, and the McDaniel spider mite. They may be various colors including yellow, greenish, brown, or red.

All species feed on the leaves (typically on the underside), causing a whitish, yellow, or brown stippling. More severe damage results in leaves taking on a bronzed appearance. Heavy infestations may cause leaf drop.

Spider mite feeding is usually accompanied by webbing on leaves and between leaves and twigs. The European red mite typically produces smaller amounts of webbing than other species. Spider mite infestations are worse in hot, dry, dusty conditions.

Management Options

See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Provide proper culture for trees. Healthy plants are more tolerant of damage, while drought-stressed plants are more susceptible.
• Predatory mites and insects such as ladybird beetles and green lacewings aid in control of mite populations. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill beneficials.
• Hose mites from plants with a strong stream of water.
• High levels of nitrogen in the foliage encourage spider mite reproduction. Switch to a slow-release or low-nitrogen fertilizer.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• Oils should be applied in early spring just prior to bud swell.
• Homeowners should not make foliar applications to trees over 10 ft tall.
• Consult a commercial pesticide applicator for treatment of trees and shrubs over 10 ft. tall.

Approved Pesticides

Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.

• All Seasons Horticultural and Dormant Spray Oil Concentrate [Organic]
  Active ingredient: mineral oil (EPA reg. 4-80)
• R-T-U Year-Round Spray Oil
  Active ingredient: mineral oil (EPA reg. 6218-78)
• Safer Brand Garden Defense Multi-Purpose Spray Concentrate [Organic]
  Active ingredient: clarified hydrophobic extract of neem oil (EPA reg. 70051-2-42697)
• Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Concentrate II [Organic]
  Active ingredient: potassium salts of fatty acid (EPA reg. 42697-60)