Are these broad mites? Help with pepper plants - Ask Extension
Hi,
Some days ago I noticed some stunted growth on my pepper plants, I thought it might be due to the cold weather we had, but then I look closer and...
Knowledgebase
Are these broad mites? Help with pepper plants #755457
Asked June 10, 2021, 9:38 PM EDT
Hi,
Some days ago I noticed some stunted growth on my pepper plants, I thought it might be due to the cold weather we had, but then I look closer and found these under the leaves, I think they are broad mites but I'm not sure.
I've sprayed with neem oil at night and I've also ordered some lacewings eggs, is there anything I could do to mitigate this?
Thanks a lot!
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Thanks for the question.
The insects in the picture appear to be aphids. Broad mites are much smaller. Lacewings and lady beetles (especially the larva) like to feed on aphids. The damage is also consistent with aphids. If the infestation is light, you can spray them off with water or use insecticidal soap. Check out the following links:
- https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/aphids
- https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/integrated-pest-management-i-p-m-for-aphids/
I hope this is helpful.
