When Rose Diseases Aren't: Clara, PMJI. Although mites are certainly a possibility, most

» Mark_Whitelaw - Clara, PMJI. Although mites are certainly a possibility, most

PMJI. Although mites are certainly a possibility, most pest mite species enter diapause (the insect equivalent to mammalian hibernation) when temperatures drop below 50F or exceed 90F. The preferred breeding temperature for the Two-spotted Spider Mite, the most common pest mite, is 70F - where they will double their population in about 14 days.

Since our temperatures here in Texas have been outrageously hot, I suspect the only critter William is defending against is the grasshopper... and even they are smart enough not to come out until the sun goes down.

MarkW>Ft. Worth, TX/Zn 7b, Rose Garden

-- posted by Mark_Whitelaw