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pepper problem #801345

Asked July 15, 2022, 2:44 PM EDT

Two weeks ago my Sweet Pickle pepper plants looked beautiful, but now (mid-July) all the new growth is stunted. I don't see any bugs. What could be going on here?

Jackson County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi Karen, thanks for the question.

The damage you are seeing is consistent with mites (cyclamen and broad mites) and also with herbicide damage. A virus is another possibility.  If you are not seeing the problem with other plants this may is most likely not herbicide damage. Herbicide damage shows up a few days after exposure and can come from overspray or vaporization (sometimes a substantial distance).  Plants can grow out of this type of damage but not always.  Broad mites or cyclamen mites may be the culprits.  You can't see them with the naked eye.  These are usually greenhouse pests but can be found outside on plants bought as transplants. They are difficult to control. Viral problems are untreatable.  Check out the following links for more information:

Herbicide injury on garden plants | UMN Extension

Noticing herbicide drift in your garden? | UMN Extension

Broad mite - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)

Cyclamen-and-Broad-Mites.pdf (wisc.edu)

Cyclamen and broad mites (missouribotanicalgarden.org)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 18, 2022, 9:01 PM EDT

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