Clovers are quite invasive and can infest your garden in no time. These tiny insects feed on more than 200 species of plants, and can enter your home, too. However, these are mainly found on clovers, which gives them the name “clover mites.” You may not see them in bunches, but when the weather starts to cool down, their population increases.
People with garden vegetation and indoor plants don’t like clover mites hanging around, as they can damage plants. If you are feeling like losing a battle against these tiny pests, this blog will help you find effective ways to get rid of clover mites on plants.
What Attracts Clover Mites?
Clover mites are tiny reddish or green-brown insects that are smaller than a pinhead, making them easier to crawl through cracks and crevices to enter the home. They are mostly active in spring and fall and stay dormant during summer. Though they are invasive and annoying, they don’t harm the building structure, as termites do, and also don’t bite people.
But what attracts clover mites? Several factors invite mites into your garden and homes. Some of them are warmth, cool temperature, moisture, food sources, and many more. Even rotting wood and leaves in the backyard attract mites, as they thrive in moist environments.
What Are the Signs of Clover Mite Infestation?
As they are tiny, it can be quite difficult to tell if you have a mite infestation. Here are some common signs of cover mites -
- You see a large swarm of mites in certain areas of your home and garden.
- Red spots on the walls, carpets, curtains, etc.
- Mites roam and gather around window sills and doorways.
- Check your plants; if they show silvery-white discolouration, you have a severe mite problem.
8 Ways to Get Rid of Clover Mites on Plants
Clover mites are a nuisance because they suck moisture from plants, leading to leaf wilting and, eventually, plant death. Hence, they need to be addressed as early as possible. Here are a few effective methods that will help you get rid of them:
Boric Acid
Boric acid is considered one of the most effective ways to get rid of clover mites in your garden. This product creates a barrier that prevents mites from entering. All you need to do is sprinkle some along the plant's borders to eliminate these pests.
White Vinegar or Dish Soap
White vinegar mixed with dish soap is also an effective way to kill clover mites on plants. Mix either ingredient with water and pour into a spray bottle. Spray directly on the plant that is infested by mites.
| Some Tips | If you have an indoor clover mite infestation, vacuum the area thoroughly, as they leave red stains on floors, walls, window sills, etc. |
Water Blast
If you find clover mites on the plant, use a hose to spray them off. Doing this will wash them away quickly.
Use Neem Oil
Neem oil is another effective way to get rid of clover mites. Experts believe they effectively kill the mites. However, if the infestation is heavy, you might need to apply neem oil regularly to eliminate them permanently without harming the plants.
Diatomaceous Earth
Wherever you see a bunch of clover mites gathering, sprinkle a handful of diatomaceous earth and create a border. It is the natural and most effective way to kill mites, as the powder dries up their exoskeleton, ultimately leading to their death. Make sure you reapply it after it rains, as rainwater washes it away.
| Some Tips | Cover your mouth when sprinkling diatomaceous earth. Because, if inhaled, it can cause lung irritation and other issues. |
Insecticidal Soap
You can apply insecticidal soap directly on the plant to kill the mites. You can also consider applying horticultural oils if the infestation is heavy. Additionally, make sure you are
Overwatering the plant harms it, causing root rot and also attracting clover mites.
Regularly Mow the Lawn
It is advised to keep the lawn mowed and free from debris. Doing this prevents the clover mites from coming back. Also, when mowing, the mites residing on the grass also die. Thus, eliminating their population. You can use a mulching mower, which keeps the grass shorter and reduces hiding spots for the mites.
Incorporate Beneficial Insects
Another effective way to get rid of clover mites on garden plants is to introduce beneficial insects that keep their population in check.
How to Prevent Clover Mites from Entering the Home?
If you see clover mites crawling on the exterior wall, near the doorways, window sills, etc., take immediate action to prevent them from entering your home. Here are some ways to prevent them from invading your home -
Do Not Keep Plants in Your Foundation
Keep the plants away from the boundaries of your home, as they serve as entryways for mites. It also prevents water from pooling and building up moisture, which is an ideal ground for mites to survive. Trim all the branches and excess leaves leading into your home.
Incorporate Non-Organic Materials
If you have a green thumb and can’t avoid having plants around your home’s foundation, consider adding non-organic materials, such as pea gravel, which help retain moisture for your plants and also keep mites away. Also, avoid using fertilizers to deter mites.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Check for any gaps or cracks along your home's perimeter, as clover mites use them as entry points. Their tiny bodies can fit into anything, so the best way is to use weatherstrips to seal off doors, windows, and any crevices.
Use Miticides
Use miticides to keep the mites away from the home’s foundation. However, when purchasing, make sure that the chemical is meant for outdoor use.
Plant Mite Repellant Flowers
Plant flowers, such as geranium, marigold, salvia, chrysanthemum, etc., to ward off clover mites. It is best to plant them near and around the foundation of your home and in vegetation, as some, such as marigolds and geraniums, are among the best companion plants.
