Spider Mites Life Cycle
Spider mite infestations continue to plague gardeners and growers across the United States. From winery owners to medical marijuana grow houses, from farmers to organic growers, and from landscapers to hydroponic gardeners, spider mites consistently limit crop production and harvest productivity. As one of the most common agricultural pests, spider mite infestations are directly linked to lost crop, destroyed harvests, and most importantly, lost profits due to massive invasions.
Understanding the spider mites life cycle will help those growers and gardeners suffering from infestations to address the serious problem. For instance, gaining an understanding of the conditions in which spider mites thrive will help growers to recognize when the use of organic products is necessary. Spider mite infestations are often recognized by the speckled yellowish marks that they leave in their path when feeding on plants cells.
As the first sign of a spider mite invasion, these speckled yellow-white marks must be recognized immediately. If left unaddressed, the infestations will quickly kill the plants cells entirely. Those slow to come across a spider mite infestation may be too late. The following chart of spider mites life cycle provides an excellent look into the importance of immediately addressing an invasion.
Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Number of Days (from Egg to Adult) |
60° | 30 |
64° | 21 |
70° | 14.5 |
90° | 3.5 |