Hi everyone!
My garden is overrun with tiny red bugs, they’re clustering on my roses and tomato plants, leaving yellow spots and webbing. I’ve tried spraying soapy water, but they multiply overnight! Are these spider mites or something else?
Background:
- Bugs are bright red, smaller than pinheads, and love hot/dry areas.
- I have indoor cats, so harsh chemicals are a no-go.
- Tried neem oil but saw minimal results.
Discussion Points:
- What natural remedies effectively kill red bugs without harming plants?
- Are there predatory insects that eat these pests (e.g., ladybugs, lacewings)?
- How do I clean infested areas to prevent reinfestation?
- Do certain plants repel red bugs (e.g., garlic, chrysanthemums)?
- Should I isolate affected plants or treat the whole garden?
Desperate for help, my plants are dying!
Sounds like spider mites! Blast plants with a hose to dislodge them. Then spray a mix of 1 tbsp rubbing alcohol + 1 quart water. Repeat every 3 days. @BugBattler2024, focus under leaves, they hide there!
Predatory mites (Phytoseiulus) are game-changers! Order online and release at dusk. They’ll hunt red bugs mercilessly. Also, mist plants daily, mites hate humidity!
@SpiderMiteExpert Alcohol mix safe for tomatoes? Worried about burning leaves…
Test on a single leaf first! If no damage in 24 hours, go full spray. Add 1 tsp castile soap to help it stick. Avoid midday sun to prevent burns!
Cinnamon powder! Sprinkle on soil and leaves. Antifungal and repels mites.
Isolate infested plants ASAP! Mites spread like wildfire. Wipe leaves with diluted hydrogen peroxide (1:4 ratio) and quarantine for 2 weeks.
Red bugs thrive in drought. Water deeply and mulch to retain moisture. Introduce ladybugs, they’re less fussy than predatory mites and eat 50+ mites/day!
Diatomaceous earth (food-grade) on soil and stems! It shreds their exoskeletons. Reapply after rain. Safe for cats once dry!
Hosed plants + alcohol spray worked! Added ladybugs and cinnamon. No new mites in 4 days. Thank you all!
Rotate crops, prune crowded leaves, and plant marigolds. Mites hate strong scents and airflow!