How Do You Know If You Have Broad Mites

A typical indication of an attack of broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus), is the appearance of dark brown edges at the base of young leaves. In case of a mild infestation, one can often see brown, frequently collapsed spots, or brown stripes forming a fine network on the leaves.

Can you see broad mites?

Broad mites are almost impossible to see with the naked eye and are best viewed with a strong hand lens or microscope. Typical symptoms of broad mite feeding can mimic 2,4-D herbicide damage. New leaves are small, stunted, strap-like, and they sometimes curl downward and inward (Images 1 and 3).

Can plants recover from broad mites?

According to Bogash, unlike spider mite damage, plants attacked by broad mites may not recover and often are permanently stunted. The challenge in minimizing damage is due to the extreme difficulty in scouting for them.