Spider mites

Caused by: Tetranychus urticae
Problem Category: Mites
Symptoms: Leaves stippled with yellow; leaves may appear bronzed; webbing covering leaves; mites may be visible as tiny moving dots on the webs or underside of leaves, best viewed using a hand lens; usually not spotted until there are visible symptoms on the plant; leaves turn yellow and may drop from plant
Comments: Spider mites thrive in dusty conditions; water-stressed plants are more susceptible to attack
Management: In the home garden, spraying plants with a strong jet of water can help reduce buildup of spider mite populations; if mites become problematic apply insecticidal soap to plants; certain chemical insecticides may actually increase mite populations by killing off natural enemies and promoting mite reproduction
Control: Mix 5% Neem seed kernal extract in 100 litre of water and spray at the bottom of the leaf