[Glissando88]

I'm a member of an African violet online forum. Several of our members are finding different types presumed to be mites on our plants. Knowing there are virtually dozens or more types of mites we are uncertain about treatment options for our plants. It would be WONDERFUL to have an entomologist available now and then to view some pictures/videos taken with digital microscopes and give us a definitive answer about the bugs we're seeing and perhaps insight on their prevention. If entomology isn't the proper section for this inquiry please advise. Thanks so much for considering this request!

[gnahcd]

It seems that mites are a common problem in african violets and there are a lot of farmers/hobbyists growing african violets. Internet sites point to three major mite pests of african violets - cyclamen mites, broad mites, and spider mites. I found many websites intended for the professional farmer, and some appear to be out of date, or regional, so it was hard to find a good answer.

I suggest a gardener try insecticidal soap, neem oil, or sulfur. Farmers use Avid (abamectin). Perhaps quarantine the infested pots and treat a test sample first. You might have to throw out infested plants. Careful about leaf burn, plants should be well watered, and spray on cool days. It is best to select a pesticide that specifically controls "mites" on "African violets" or at least on "houseplants." Always use pesticides according to the label directions.

Cyclamen mites and broad mites are very small and different from spider mites and probably hard to kill. Cyclamen mites feed in the plant crown, stunting new growth. Broad mites often make the leaf surface, scabby. Isolate infested plants and be careful while handling them so you do not accidentally transfer mites from one plant to another.

Here are some website I found. The Missouri BotGdn site is good for ID. Don't think that Kelthane is used much anymore, at least not in Calif.

Caring for African Violets
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/v...s/insects.html
HGIC 2250 African Violet Diseases & Insect Pests : Extension : Clemson University : South Carolina
Missouri Bot Gdn Cyclamen and broad mites
http://titanarum.uconn.edu/msds/floramite_label.pdf
http://www.syngentaprofessionalprodu...96AL6A0904.pdf
http://www.saferbrand.com/store/garden-care/5110
http://web.pppmb.cals.cornell.edu/re...mfs/08neem.php

[Glissando88]

Thank you! I much appreciate your research and the links provided.