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.
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