Common crops affected
Why it matters
Citrus rust mite bronzes fruit and downgrades fresh-market grade even when internal quality is sound.
When it appears
From fruit-set onward, before bronzing develops; hand-lens monitor through the season.
How to identify it
- Bronzing, russeting or a dark, leathery 'sharkskin' finish on fruit (especially the sun-exposed side).
- Silvering or bronzing on leaves; reduced fruit size in heavy infestations.
- Mites invisible to the naked eye — confirm with a hand lens (10-15x) on fruit and leaf surface.
How to manage it
- Apply Spider Mite Control on contact with thorough fruit and canopy coverage;
- repeat per monitoring.
- Monitor early, treat at the right window above, and use cultural measures (sanitation, airflow/drainage or resistance/rotation as relevant).
Recommended Vegalab program
| Role | Product | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Primary control | Spore Control | Apply Spider Mite Control on contact with thorough fruit and canopy coverage; |
Product claims, rates, and availability vary by jurisdiction; always follow the applicable label.

