Spider Mite Problems

I have read your article about treatment for conifers infested with spider mites. I have several conifers that appear to have been quite seriously affected by the problem. They have new growth but only on the top extremities and the lower 80% of the trees are almost dead. Can these trees be revived or is removing them the only solution?

Our neighbour has had his removed and the tree expert, having looked at my trees , suggests it’s the best choice for me too. I will miss them if I lose them, and I have only just moved into the property and suspect the trees will affect our privacy.

Best regards,
Kanti

Thank you for your email.

I am sorry to hear of the problems you are having with your hedge. If a tree expert has indicated that the hedge should be removed, I would bow to their specialist knowledge and probably resign yourself that the hedge’s days are numbered and begin to plan for a replacement.

However, I have always been of the opinion that nothing ventured, nothing gained. If you are reluctant to remove the hedge, you have nothing to lose in trying one last time to rescue it. If you would like to try to revive it, I would begin by giving the hedge a Winter Wash now followed by spraying with an insect killer spray when the mites begin to emerge and reproduce in the spring. You could also hang some spider mite killer sachets in the hedge once temperatures have increased above a constant of 6 degrees. Obviously there may be a practical issue with this depending upon the size of the hedge with these treatments and you will want to balance this along with your desire to try and keep the hedge.

I wish you the best of luck with your hedge. Please let me know if you require any further assistance.

Kindest Regards

Jo