Dry period is a warning sign for the emergence of defoliating mites in citrus

Infestations of tetranychid mites, also known as defoliating mites, usually occur during the driest period of the year, between March and September. Therefore, attention must be paid to avoid damage to orchards.

There are three species of defoliating mites that affect citrus: the purple mite (Panonychus citri), the Texas mite (Eutetranychus banksi) and the Mexican mite (Tetranychus mexicanus). These pests attack plant leaves, causing chlorotic spots known as mottling, which result in defoliation and drying of plant tips.

To control infestations of these pests, it is recommended to monitor in the initial phase, apply the acaricide at the appropriate dose and rotate the products, with different modes of action, in order to avoid the emergence of populations of mites resistant to the products.

Furthermore, it is important to pay attention as the management of other pests can interfere with the control of defoliators, such as the excessive and/or continuous use of pyrethroid, organophosphate and neonicotinoid insecticides which, associated with the dry period, can cause a sudden increase in infestations. of mites, due to the elimination of their natural enemies.