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Insects eating my autumn blaze maple #473236

Asked July 25, 2018, 10:54 AM EDT

Good morning, I have a recently (2 months ago) transplanted 1.5" trunk autumn blaze maple and I've noticed what I think are spider mites on it. The first image attached shows one of the bugs eating a leaf. Are these spider mites, or something else? What treatment would you recommend? I have a spray bottle of "Bon-Neem" by Bonide, containing 0.02% Pyrethrins, 0.2% Piperonyl Butoxide, and 0.9% Neem oil, but on the label details it says, "Do not apply to known spray-sensitive plant species, such as...... and red maple...without prior testing" Is this Bon-Neem OK to use on this tree? Is there a better/safer product that you would recommend? Thanks very much for your help. Bob McKlveen

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

I would guess the damage on the first leaf is from Japanese Beetle, not spider mite. The second photo looks more like spider mites damage. To check for spider mites, hold a piece of white paper under a branch and shake the branch. You should see little specs fall. Also, they will spin little webs. Insecticidal soap and horticultural oil are recommended products for mites. You also can use a miticide. Read the labels on any product for cautions and plants that should not be treated.  https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/spider-mites-clover-mites-and-velvet-mites#spider-...
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied July 25, 2018, 5:25 PM EDT
Thanks very much for your helpful reply.  Once again, the U of M extension is a wonderful service.
The Question Asker Replied July 25, 2018, 6:23 PM EDT

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