Say farewell to those pesky red buggers with these chemical-free solutions.
Smashed clover mites can leave red stains on your furnishings or walls.
Natural Remedies for Clover Mites
Natural, non-toxic solutions should be your first defense against clover mites.
Photo:Joseph Dreimiller/Getty Images
Natural remedies can kill the little red buggers without posing risks to your health or environment.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a popular, non-toxic way to eliminate clover mites.
Sprinkling it around the infested areas creates a barrier that dehydrates the mites.
Essential Oils
Sylva says essential oils like peppermint or clove oil can also help deter clover mites.
Neem Oil
Another natural way to kill clover mites is to useneem oil.
Neem oil disrupts mites life cycles and can be used as a natural pesticide.
“Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective in killing clover mites, Wilson says.
Just mix neem oil with water according to the product label instructions and then spray it on affected areas.
The dish detergent acts as an emulsifying agent, allowing the neem oil to mix better with the water.
After combining the water and dish detergent, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of neem oil.
Spray the neem solution around entryways and areas of your home or yard where you see clover mites.
Vacuuming is one of the best ways to remove clover mite infestations from your home.
Physically removing clover mites can be done through vacuuming, Sylva says.
Its crucial to use a vacuum witha HEPA filterto prevent the mites from spreading.
After vacuuming, seal and dispose of the bag immediately.
Regular cleaning of affected areas with soap and water can also help remove any residual mites and their eggs.
If clover mites attack your plants, you could use physical barriers like mesh netting to protect them.
Tips for Preventing Clover Mites
Clean your home and yard regularly to help prevent clover mites.
Remove weeds andcut your grassfrequently.
Ensure your soil is well-draining to eliminate places for clover mites to gather and feed.
Clover mites love feasting on moist lawns.
You canreplace mulchwith dry materials like pea gravel or crushed rock.
Maintain your lawn by regularly mowing and removingexcess thatch, Wilson says.
Clover mites thrive in dense vegetation, so a healthy lawn maintained withproper aerationand drainage can discourage their proliferation.
If clover mites are entering your home, check for cracks around doors and windows.
Seal and caulk any entryway areas that leave gaps for mites to enter.
Vacuum regularly and wash your linens frequently to keep your home free of clover mites.
Insecticides are usually a last resort, Sylva says.
However, they become necessary when natural methods fail to manage a severe infestation.
I recommend products containing bifenthrin or permethrin for effective control.
These chemicals are safe when used as directed and can provide long-term solutions by killing mites on contact.
Wear goggles and protective clothing when spraying insecticides.
Spray pesticide around doors, windows, and entryways to get rid of clover mites in your home.
Significant infestations or recurrences often require professional intervention, Sylva says.
A pest control professional can also recommend strategies to prevent future infestations.
