How To Get Rid Of Clover Mites, According To An Entomologist
14.06.2024 - 22:45
/ southernliving.com
/ Arricca Elin SanSone
Clover mites feed on more than 200 different species of plants, preferably clover, which gives them their name. But, surprisingly, they typically aren’t a huge problem for homeowners outdoors. It’s when they head indoors—in large numbers—that it’s a little more upsetting. “Clover mites are an occasional invader into our homes,” says Eric Benson, PhD, professor emeritus and extension entomologist withClemson University. “In some years, you’ll see more than others. When the temperature and moisture levels are right, the population can explode.”
- Eric Benson, PhD, is professor emeritus and extension entomologist withClemson University.
What Are Clover Mites?
These tiny red or green-brown mites (Bryobia praetiosa) are smaller than a pinhead, but thousands of them may come into your home under the threshold or through small cracksduring the spring or fall. They become dormant in summer. Fortunately, clover mites don’t bite and aren’t harmful to people and pets, and they don’t damage structures, such astermites. They also don’t fly because they have no wings, says Benson.
These minute pests, which are related tospiders andticks, are more bothersome than anything else. Indoors, they’ll desiccate quickly due to lack of moisture, says Benson. Probably the most annoying issue is that squishing these little mites will cause a reddish stain—which is why people sometimes worry they’re blood-sucking parasites. But the truth is that the red stain is due topigments from their body fluids.
How To Get Rid Of Aphids, According To Experts How To Get Rid Of Clover Mites Indoors
If you have a clover mite invasion in your home, simply use a vacuum to suck them up without crushing them to prevent stains, says Benson. Toss the sweeper bag,