Baldcypress Rust Mite

Plant Health Clinic Disease Note Issue 30
Sherrie Smith and Jason Pavel

Baldcypress Rust Mite-Epitrimerus taxodii. Photo by Sherrie Smith, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Baldcypress may be attacked during the hot summer months by the Baldcypress Rust Mite, Epitrimerus taxodii. Rust mites are microscopic eriophyid mites, most active during the warm season.

What are the symptoms of Baldcypress rust mites?

Symptoms are needles becoming yellowish and then brown. Serious infestations can cause the entire tree to turn a rusty brown color. The white cast skins of the mites are the easiest way to diagnose the presence of rust mites.

How can I control Baldcypress rust mites?

Applications of Carbaryl (Sevin), or Abamectin (Avid), or Insecticidal soap will control the mites if good coverage is achieved. Bio Advanced Insect Control for Trees and Shrubs is a systemic insecticide that is very effective and does not require as many applications. Baldcypress is very sensitive to horticultural oils so avoid the use of oils for mite control on Bald cypress.

Baldcypress Rust Mite-Epitrimerus taxodii. Photo by Sherrie Smith, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Take Aways:

• Scout for the tell-tale white cast off skins of the rust mites.
• Imidacloprid (BioAdvanced Scientific Solutions Systemic Insect Control for Trees and Shrubs) gives good control.
• Avoid the use of oils to control mites on Baldcypress.

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This work is supported by the Crop Protection and Pest Management Program [grant no. 2017-70006- 27279/project accession no. 1013890] from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.