Fact Sheet

Spruce Spider Mite

Have you noticed rusty pine needles, or are they falling off too soon?

This could be the work of spruce spider mites.

The Problem

Spruce spider mites are tiny pests that overwinter as eggs near bud scales. They feed on mature needles during cooler parts of the growing season.

Signs and symptoms include:

Speckled, mottled, or flecked needles
Rusty or bronzed needle color
Premature needle drop

Co-occurring issues or look-alike symptoms:
Rhizosphaera needle cast, stigmina needle cast, cytospora canker, and salt damage.

The Vineland Prescription

For spruce mite treatment, two or three treatments per season with a miticide may be necessary to manage populations.
Mulch and water to increase tree vigor. Fertilize if necessary.

The Prognosis

If caught early, trees will generally recover quickly. It can take several years for trees to grow enough new foliage to look fully green again.

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