Question
QUESTION: Hi, I actually had submitted a question a few days ago about clover mites that I've been seeing along my windowsills. Per your suggestion I'm having all of the weeds along my foundation removed today and the grass cut short. However, I've read online that taking away their food(the weeds) can send them inside the house in enormous numbers, is this possible? I'm almost afraid to go home. Also, we are fertilizing the lawn as we have many dandelions. I've read "over fertilized" lawns have more problems...I assume that a regular fertilization regimen wont hurt the problem?

ANSWER: Kristin,

If you are concerned about clover mites moving from outside to inside you could treat the perimeter foundation and soil with insecticide. This is usually not necessary since the mites can only migrate short distances. I believe Onslaught Microencapsulated insecticide is approved for this application but be sure to check a current label. Another option would be a botanical insecticide (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/botanical_insecticide.html) such as EcoEXEMPT IC.

Fertilizer should not affect clover mites unless the vegetation is allowed to grow too high against the house.

Jack DeAngelis



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I assume it's too late now to treat since the weeds have been pulled up, though we did have the area sprayed by an exterminator last week...but I've still seen mites since then. How long do their migrations last? How long can they live inside? Do they generally venture into the house or stay on the windowsills where it's sunny?

Lots of questions, sorry and thank you for your help

Answer
The mites can't live long inside the house because their host plants are outside. Just continue to wipe them up as they are found and they will eventually go away. They may wander away from the windows but again they are harmless and can be swept up as found.

Jack DeAngelis