By Darin Allred, Ph.D., Technical Sales Support, Arysta LifeScience

Growers fight numerous pests throughout the life cycle of grapes. Many recognize spider mites as one of the key pests they must control to protect their crops and bottom lines.

Research from the University of California Cooperative Extension shows how spider mites can cause significant cellular damage to grape vines. Specifically, Tetranychus pacificus – more commonly known as the Pacific spider mite – is the primary pest mite species for grapes in the San Joaquin Valley and is appearing more and more in certain North Coast grape-growing areas. Adult Pacific spider mite females vary in color from amber to greenish; later in the season, adult females can turn orange to reddish. These pests prefer the warmer, upper canopy of the vine. They can cause damage early in the season, but Pacific spider mites often prefer the hotter, dryer part of the grape-growing season. Depending on location, growers also should be on the lookout for the Willamette spider mite, Eotetranychus willamettei, and the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae.

Evaluate the spray program in use to make sure to keep mite populations in check. The key to controlling undesirable mites while maintaining beneficial insect populations is to use the right chemistry at the right time.

Three products from the Arysta LifeScience portfolio of products for grapes – ACRAMITE^®, KANEMITE^® and OMITE^® Miticides – can play key roles in the successful fight against the Pacific spider mite and other spider-mite species.

Additionally, the University of California Cooperative Extension recommends checking for spider mites during rapid shoot growth on the first emerging leaves. At bloom, divide the vineyard into quadrants and in each quadrant, randomly select five vines (each at least a few vines in from the end of the row). Look for mites weekly on each of the 20 vines using a 10-14X lens to ensure proper treatment of any infestations. Track mite development. This mite monitoring form from the University of California is a helpful means to stay on top of mite pressure and plan treatment timing.

To learn more about the Arysta LifeScience portfolio of crop protection products specific to spider mites, contact your crop protection retailer, visit www.ArystaSpecialty.com/Grapes or call 866-761-9397.

^{OMITE is a restricted-use pesticide. State registrations may be pending. Always read and follow label directions. ACRAMITE and OMITE are registered trademarks of an Arysta LifeScience Group Company. KANEMITE is a registered trademark of Agro-Kanesho Company. Arysta LifeScience and the Arysta LifeScience logo are registered trademarks of Arysta LifeScience Corporation. ©2017 Arysta LifeScience North America, LLC. SPC-1707 #5/#7}