What are the Little Red Bugs on My Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are one of the most beloved crops to grow in home gardens, but there is nothing more frustrating than finding little red bugs on your beloved tomato plants. These little red bugs can be seen on the stems, leaves, blossoms, and fruit of tomato plants, and they can cause significant damage to your crop if they are not dealt with promptly. In this article, we will explore what those little red bugs are, the damage they can cause, and what you can do to get rid of them.

What are the Little Red Bugs?

The little red bugs on your tomato plants are called "tomato spider mites." They are tiny arachnids that are less than 1 millimeter in length and can be found in clusters under the leaves, along the stems, and on the fruits. Several species of spider mites exist, and each species prefers different plants, but the tomato spider mite is the most common species that affects tomato plants.

What Kind of Damage Can They Cause?

Tomato spider mites cause damage to tomato plants by sucking the sap out of the leaves, flowers, and fruits. Their feeding activity causes the plant to become weak, stunt its growth, and eventually become unproductive. The first signs of damage are yellow or white spots on the leaves; as the infestation grows, the leaves turn yellow and eventually drop off the plant. The fruits may also become discolored, and the yield will be reduced.

How to Get Rid of the Little Red Bugs?

Tomato spider mites can be challenging to get rid of, especially if the infestation is severe. The following are some tips on how to control and eliminate them from your tomato plants:

1. Wash the Plants

One of the simplest and most effective ways to control the tomato spider mites is to wash them off your tomato plants using a strong jet of water. Use a garden hose or a pressure washer to spray the plants, making sure that you target the undersides of the leaves where the spider mites are hiding.

2. Apply Pesticides

If washing the plants does not work, you may need to use pesticides to kill the spider mites. Several pesticides are available that are effective in controlling the tomato spider mites, but be sure to choose a product that is safe for use on tomatoes.

3. Introduce Natural Predators

One of the most natural ways to control the tomato spider mites is to introduce their natural predators into your garden. Ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites are all effective at controlling the infestation of spider mites in your tomato plants.

4. Use Preventative Measures

Another effective way to control the tomato spider mites is to use preventative measures such as keeping your garden clean, removing weeds, and pruning your tomato plants regularly. These measures will help to keep your plants healthy and less attractive to the spider mites.

Conclusion

Tomato spider mites are a common pest that can cause significant damage to your tomato plants if left untreated. Understanding what they are, the damage they can cause, and how to control them is essential in maintaining a healthy and productive tomato garden. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can effectively control the little red bugs on your tomato plants and enjoy a bumper crop of juicy, delicious tomatoes.