RE: how to get rid of spider mites without pesticides or oils
NipSoap and water used to work in the fordland area but now we are having to deal with a genetically modified spider mind that resist pretty much all toxins and builds up an immunity to whatever insecticide you are using.
Honestly enough we have discovered that you pretty much need to use diatomaceous earth in a food grade powdered form and then blow that dust through a blower and powder every inch of the plant and top of the soil.
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is an excellent chelated full spectrum micronutrient supplement.
It is like broken glass for spider mites however it is completely harmless to humans and also food additive.
In 2006 it was easy to get rid of them.
Then over night 90% of the gardens were infested with a mite that was huge and as well bred exponentially faster... A friend is using temperatures and humidity to stay bug free.
I also use spray washed to knock down the population s.
As a grower you are judged in your ability to overcome problems. And spider mites are the most common problem.
I got a tip from a grower outta Cali that told me about setting up a habitat for the ladybugs... A milk jug with I believe cotton balls of sugar water. Place them in that and let them find their way out into the garden.
I am a big fan of preditory insects for outdoors but my wife would flip her lid if I released 1000 ladybugs into the house anywhere lol. If I released just one praying mantis she would rip my throat out lol.
Oh predatory mites are better and ladybugs NEVER stay. And they can't eat enough to make a difference...
I think the blower with Diatomatious earth is the best. Pyrethiens are last case emergency.
Using water and wind to knock down the population is good.
Also I use 25% alcohol and 75% water to get the eggs and mites. They hates it. Spray under leaves and tarp off pots.
It also works great as a dunk for vegetation. Just don't get the alcohol in the roots.
Mites are a special kind of war. I usually have them as unless you are running crazy chemicals they happen.
just so you guys know the images i used are not my plants
Thanks for letting us know :) For future reference, A lotta people will just put a little note in their post regarding photo ownership, or regarding any data that is not "theirs." Thanks again for the post!