Spider Mites on Italian Cypress: Diagnosis and Treatment

Confirming Spider Mites

Those "red spiders" are almost certainly spider mites—tiny arachnids, not true spiders. To verify: hold white paper under a branch, shake vigorously, and watch for moving red dust.

Damage Symptoms

• Browning and thinning foliage, especially near the trunk
• Fine webbing on branches
• Stippled, dull needles that drop prematurely

Control Options

Insecticidal soap – thorough coverage required, repeat weekly.

Miticide/insecticide – visit a local nursery for products labeled for spider mites on conifers in your area. Systemic options like acephate or specific miticides (bifenthrin, spiromesifen) provide longer control.

Cultural Practices

• Water deeply during dry periods – drought-stressed trees are more susceptible.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which promotes tender growth mites prefer.
• Hose down foliage periodically to dislodge mites and increase humidity.

Resource

Ohio State University fact sheet on spider mite biology and control: hyf-fact/2000/2012.html