We are having a problem with spider mites. Our supplier told us to use Orathene. We have applied several times. We have lost a number of poinsettias already-he leaves get tiny spots, yellow-ish in color, and then eventually drop all leaves. Any suggestions? Thank you.

I would check the label on Orthene. I believe you can not use the product after bract development. Check the label on advid or phylon. Usually pointsettias get Lewis mites.

Akari is labeled for use on Poinsettias in color.

Spider mites and Lewis mites can actually both infest a poinsettia crop but control is the same for either pest.

There is a warning on the Orthene label that it may be phytotoxic to the bracts - we usually don't use Orthene past bract formation. A tank mix of Talstar/Avid would also be a good choice for spider mites. Sanmite is another chemical that is safe to apply to open bracts and many growers have had good results using it. The Sanmite also controls all stages where the Talstar, and Avid only control the nymph and adult stages so you are probably dealing with the eggs hatching if the Orthene is working for you.

It may be difficult to control populations on heavily infested plants so rouging out those plants is a good idea. The mites can also travel on workers clothing so don't handle infested plants before working with clean plants.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Ecke Ranch Tech Help,