Baldcypress Rust Mite

Sherrie Smith and Jason Pavel

October 17, 2022

Plant Health Clinic Disease Note Issue 35

Baldcypress Rust Mite Damage-Epitrimerus taxodii. Photo by Sherrie Smith, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension.

We are seeing Baldcypresses samples with brown, rusty foliage. 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. 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. 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.

Take Aways:

• Scout early for the presence of the mites
• Apply insecticides at the first sign of

Follow us on Facebook!

 UAEX Plant Health Clinic

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.