spider mite infestation on Tomato
Quick answer
If your Tomato has spider mite infestation, the most likely cause is: Azadirachtin (C35H44O16) from neem oil acts as antifeedant and growth regulator against Tetranychus urticae. Neem oil LC50: 33.99 ppm vs aqueous extract LC50: 260.30 ppm — neem oil is 7.7x more effective due to higher azadirachtin concentration.
Start here:
- 1. 1. Mix neem oil at 50-300 ppm concentration with 0.1% Tween 80 emulsifier in distilled water
- 2. 2. Shake vigorously before each application to ensure emulsification
Why Tomato gets spider mite infestation
Azadirachtin (C35H44O16) from neem oil acts as antifeedant and growth regulator against Tetranychus urticae. Neem oil LC50: 33.99 ppm vs aqueous extract LC50: 260.30 ppm — neem oil is 7.7x more effective due to higher azadirachtin concentration.
Other documented causes on tomato:
- • Azadirachtin (C35H44O16) is a tetranortriterpenoid from neem seeds that disrupts molting hormone (ecdysone) pathways, causing growth disruption and mortality in spider mites. Neem oil (LC50: 33.99 ppm) is 7.7x more effective than aqueous extract (LC50: 260.30 ppm).
How to reverse spider mite infestation on Tomato
- 1
1. Mix neem oil at 50-300 ppm concentration with 0.1% Tween 80 emulsifier in distilled water
- 2
2. Shake vigorously before each application to ensure emulsification
- 3
3. Spray directly on leaf undersides where spider mites congregate
- 4
4. Wait 7 days then assess mortality using Abbott's formula
- 5
5. Repeat application if mortality < 90%
Keep spider mite infestation off this Tomato
Apply neem oil at 50-300 ppm every 7 days during hot/dry seasons when spider mite outbreaks peak. Rotate with other botanical pesticides to prevent resistance development.