Mites can be a significant pest in Florida southern highbush blueberry fields, particularly southern red mites, in addition to flat mites (false spider mites) and blueberry bud mites. Southern red mites, which tend to flourish during hot dry conditions, typically infest the lower side of leaves, inserting their mouthparts into the leaf and removing cell contents. This results in a characteristic bronze discoloration of the leaves, which can cause a decline in photosynthesis rates and defoliation in the case of significant infestations. 

Adult southern red mite.

Credit: L. Buss

Southern red mite damage.

Credits: D. Phillips

Two miticides were recently labeled for use in blueberries, Magister® (fenazaquin) and Portal® (fenpyroximate). These miticides control all developmental stages of southern red mites (larvae, nymphs, and adults). 2019 University of Florida field trials evaluating seven miticides found that Magister® and Portal® were the most effective of those tested in suppressing southern red mite populations and allowing bushes to recover from mite injury. Growers are limited to one application per year using Magister® and two applications per year with Portal®.  

Oscar Liburd, UF Professor and Program Leader, Fruit and Vegetable Entomology

Lorena Lopez, UF Post-doctoral Research Associate

Doug Phillips, UF Blueberry Extension Coordinator