Quiescent female larvae become attractive to the males which pick them up and carry them to the new foliage. Males and females are very active, but the males apparently account for much of the dispersal of a broad mite population in their frenzy to carry the quiescent female larvae to new leaves. When females emerge from the quiescent stage, males immediately mate with them. They are more difficult to control in winter than in summer due to lower greenhouse temperatures. Lowering infested plants into water held at 111o F for 15 minutes will destroy these mites without damaging the plants.
Broad mites are also susceptible to various miticides.
If chemical control is desired, spray or dip the plant thoroughly with one of the following pesticides. 2 teaspoons per gallon of water. 2 teaspoons per gallon of water. Recommendations for the use of chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned.