Boxwood: Boxwood mite

categories: Boxwood Boxwood Insects Ornamentals Shrubs

last review date: 2026-04-09 01:57

Biology

Boxwood mites are small and greenish brown. Their presence is typically indicated by small white, yellow, or bronze streaks resembling fine scratches or speckles on the upper surface of leaves.

The mites may be found on the upper or lower surface of leaves. Heavy infestations may result in premature leaf drop.

Mite infestations are often worse during 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!

• Conserve natural predators such as ladybird beetles, lacewings, and predaceous mites. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill these beneficials.
• Wash mites from foliage with a strong stream of water.
• Maintain plant health. Healthy plants are more tolerant of insect and mite damage.
• High levels of nitrogen in the foliage encourage 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.

• Apply when first noticed or when damage is noticed.

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)
• Hi-Yield Dormant Spray
  Active ingredient: Paraffinc oil (EPA reg. 7401-428)
• Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Concentrate II [Organic]
  Active ingredient: potassium salts of fatty acid (EPA reg. 42697-60)
• Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap with Seaweed Extract II [Organic]
  Active ingredient: potassium salts of fatty acid (EPA reg. 42697-59)