AT A GLANCE
How do I recognize the rust mite infestation of the apple tree?
The tiny pests are just under a strong magnifying glass to see. The infestation is evident from the yellow, merging spots on the leaves, which later turn brownish-rusty. They begin to bend down and dry up.
What do rust mites look like?
You own one spindle-shaped, yellowish-brown body with four front legs, the hind legs are only partially present. Apple rust mites (Aculus Schlechtedali) are only about 0.2 millimeters in size Eye to see. You can only see the small arachnids under at least 15x magnification through a magnifying glass.
also read
- pruning apple tree
How do rust mites damage the apple tree?
The females, who hibernate in cracks in the bark and scales of buds of the apple tree, migrate to the leaves of the flower clusters and in spring suck on fresh foliage and the buds. Because there are five to six overlapping generations in one season, thousands of rust mites can colonize a single leaf over the summer.
The upper side of the apple leaves then appear dull and lackluster. The foliage is browning and drying up. Furthermore, there is a reduced fruit yield.
However, unlike other mites, the apple rust mite does not form galls.
How can I fight the rust mites on apples?
predatory mites the kind Typhlodromus pyri, that you can buy and settle commercially, impede one too strong propagation the rust mites. Other natural opponents are:
- hoverflies,
- lacewings,
- flower bugs,
- some bird species.
To spread the Mites on the apple tree To contain it, you should also cut back infested branches and dispose of them in the household waste.
In Germany, no pesticides against the apple rust mite are currently approved. However, the tiny arachnids will get through anti-scab sprays decimated.
Tip
Successful prevention of apple rust mites
In order to prevent an excessive infestation, it is advisable to use the useful ones predatory mites to protect. Since the animals are very sensitive to sulfur sprays, these should be avoided if possible. The settlement of predatory mites can be achieved by creating wild shrub hedges, in particular by planting dogwood, Hazelnut and Red honeysuckle, support financially.