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The ultimate spider mite treatment?

So I've struggled with a spider mite problem in my potted figs for over a year and a half. Apartment dweller in Ontario, and had tried multiple applications of End All and other such sprays from various nurseries. Works for a few weeks, and then they're back. Tried frequent misting, homemade olive oil and soap sprays, and still no luck. Then in desperation late this winter, I decided to try a 'nuclear' option. Had some flaxseed oil and figured, if it's a dilute oil and soap emulsion that's basically killing the mites, why not COMPLETELY cover the plant in oil, then wash it off? It's dying slowly anyways, and I couldn't stand the smell of End-All inside anymore. So I covered the soil with duct tape to prevent the oil and water from getting into the soil. Then I drenched the leaves, bark, and everything with the flaxseed oil, and promptly washed it off with bar soap, lathering the tree leaves and bark, and finally giving it a good rinse with water. Did it damage the leaves? Absolutely. But did new healthy leaves grow back? You betcha. And it's been several months now, and still no evidence of any mites. Fingers crossed, but I thought I'd share my experience in case it helps anyone else. Flaxseed just happened to be what I had at the time. Not sure that the type of oil matters... anyone else try something this crazy?

Sorry, I don't know what you have available to you in Canada.

You could have a look at this channel and take note of the oils used. I tried my own recipe - pause the video and you'll see the ingredients in his product or perhaps he can help you buy it where you live. Anyway, it killed all the spider mites and twin spotted mites on all of my plants.


https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZyWLF4jkoxNx4eptYxpCiQ

Neem oil

Pretty sure neem oil is illegal in Ontario.

It's organic,why is it illegal?

No idea. When I went looking for it, several places didn't know what it was, and then one place told me it wasn't allowed in Ontario anymore.

  • ricky
  • · Edited

Neem oil is banned in Canada.

I used products using Canola oil with daisy flower last year to treat FMV mites, it seemed working, not sure that it works for spider mites or not.

Someone gave me untested formula.
- 500mL Canola oil
- 2 dried pyrethrum daisy
++ Crushed daisy flower and mix in Canola oil, Seeds contain highest dosage of insecticide, soak it for at least one day
++ you should filter it ( It clog spray tip), and store them in non-transparent container.
It must be diluted with water to 2% or less for spray to avoid burning fig leaves.
It is mild toxic to human and Sunlight biodegrades it toxic, It is safer to eat its figs.
Best spray trees at evening time.
you can increase number of pyrethrum daisy to increase its kill/repel power.

if you do not want this DIY hassle, you can buy it $10C at Walmart or Canadian tire  ( Make sure it is Canola oil, Their other products look same)
http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/scotts-ecosense-bug-b-gon-insecticide-709-ml-0593891p.html
Walmart has them last year and cheaper but I can not find them this year online.


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