Expert: Sarracenia Northwest - 5/9/2011

Question
Hi! I recently noticed that I have some tiny little red bugs (red spider mites maybe?) in one of my windowsills and have seen a few on the tropical plants I have on the sill (2 pygmy sundew, a cape sundew and a mexican butterwort.) at this point i don't think they are necessarily hurting the plants, at least I haven't seen any obvious damage, but I am unsure of how to get rid of them, esp without hurting the plants! I live in the St. Louis area.  Lately it has been very wet, rainy, humid and warm.  
Thanks so much!
Katie

Answer
They could possibly spider mites.  One of their hallmark traits is webs amongst the leaves.  Spider mites are a serious problem for carnivorous plants since they drink the sap of the plant.  It's important to determine if you have spider mites or another pest because this will determine how to treat them.  Again, look for spider webs among the leaves.  If necessary, use a magnifying glass to examine the critters.  Spider mites will have eight legs.

An appropriate treatment for mites is permethrin.  You can find it at many garden centers.  Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer.

For more information about insecticides, watch our video podcast on the subject:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbRCdJ8ZNF0

Good growing!
Jacob Farin