Moist growing media conditions can promote bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus spp.) infestation and fungal and bacterial growth on lily and other bulb crops. Mich. St. Univ. entomologist David Smitley said these are not usually a problem on healthy bulbs grown in a well-drained medium. Allowing the medium to dry down between waterings can help reduce disease and mite problems.
Tom Dudek, MSU senior district extension horticulture and marketing educator, said one method of treating for bulb mites is to apply a labelled miticide (i.e., Avid, Sanmite or Pylon) as a medium drench. The miticide can be applied to the medium surface allowing the top 2 inches to become moist.
Pictured: Bulb mite adult
Photo by Jack Kelly Clark, Univ. of Calif.
Latest from Greenhouse Management
- University of Florida study unlocks secrets of invasive short-spined thrips
- Kian-backed Eden Brothers adds Michael Hollenstein as CEO, expands senior leadership team
- IPPS announces organizational rebrand, new website and 2026 international membership drive
- Growscape appoints chief manufacturing officer, Brian Cunningham
- BioWorks introduces Sandrine Copper Soap and Cintro Insecticidal Soap
- BioWorks appoints Jason Miller as director of sales and distributor relations manager
- Florida Ag Research appoints Jason Hamm as southeast USA area research manager
- Fresh Inset appoints Gordon Robertson as general manager, North America
