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Pest & Disease Library · Solutions

Broad Mite Control in Cucumber

Broad mites are microscopic but hugely damaging on cucumber, injecting growth-distorting saliva into growing points. Damage looks like a nutrient or herbicide problem, so it’s often misdiagnosed until growth is badly deformed.

Common crops affected

Why it matters

They stunt and deform growing points and downgrade fruit, and because they're invisible the damage is usually advanced before it's diagnosed. Early treatment of new growth is essential.

When to act

Act at first distortion of growing points; scout tips with magnification.

What to look for

  • Downward-curled, bronzed, brittle young leaves
  • Corky, distorted growing points
  • Stunted tips and aborted flowers
  • Damage far exceeding the invisible mite numbers

How to manage it

  1. Confirm with a hand lens or lab — symptoms mimic disease.
  2. Remove the worst distorted tips.
  3. Spray MultiMite Control onto new growth; repeat to catch generations.

Recommended Vegalab program

Spider Mite Control / a registered miticide targeting broad mites — see the Product Finder; zero PHI and zero REI.

RoleProductUse
Primary controlMultiMite ControlBroad-spectrum mite control
CompanionSpider Mite ControlMixed mite pressure

Product claims, rates, and availability vary by jurisdiction; always follow the applicable label.

Frequently asked questions

Why can’t I see them?

They’re microscopic — diagnose from the distinctive tip distortion and treat the growing points thoroughly.