Dyer's Broom with Eriophyid Mites? Rare but Treatable

Eriophyid Mites on Dyer's Broom: What to Know?

Eriophyid Mites on Dyer's Broom (Genista) is a pest condition with moderate severity. Dyer's Broom has low susceptibility to this disease. Eriophyid mites (family Eriophyidae) are extremely small, worm-shaped mites that feed by piercing plant tissue and sucking out the contents. They live on young leaves, buds, and sometimes fruit. Typic...

Dyer's Broom is a easy-care plant.

Unlike most plants, Dyer's Broom has natural resistance to Eriophyid Mites. Best treated with preventive measures rather than reactive treatment. Unlike fungal diseases, Eriophyid Mites on Dyer's Broom responds quickly to integrated pest management. Without precautions, chemical treatments for Eriophyid Mites can be harmful to pets. Use organic methods for Dyer's Broom in pet-friendly homes.

• ✓ Regularly inspect plants for early signs such as blistered or felted patches and distorted new growth.
• ✓ Quarantine new plants for 2 to 3 weeks and inspect with a hand lens if possible.
• ✓ Promptly prune out abnormal growth and remove fallen galled material, disposing of it in the bin.
• ✓ Maintain plant vigor with balanced fertilization, consistent watering, and good airflow, while avoiding excessive nitrogen.
• ✓ Apply a dormant oil to susceptible outdoor plants each late winter when appropriate.
• ✓ Choose cultivars known to be less prone to galling or russeting when available.
• ✓ Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides that harm beneficial mites and can lead to mite outbreaks.