Banks Grass Mite

Banks grass mites are less than 1/2mm, so roughly the size of a fine grain of sand. They are usually a green color, allowing them to blend in easily with grass during their active months. When they overwinter, they become bright orange or red. They lay tiny pearly white eggs and multiple generations will occur throughout the season.

 

Banks grass mites are in the spider mite family, so they will produce webbing. The webbing may become visible in high population areas. Because of their size, magnification would be required to see their features, but, as arachnids, the nymphs and adults have 8 legs.

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Banks grass mites feed on grasses. They are most active through the spring and summer months, and prefer drought-stressed areas. They feed by piercing the leaves and stripping them of the chlorophyll and plant sap the turf needs to remain healthy. First, you'll notice discoloration, such as yellowish-brown spots. Infestations will leave the grass looking grayish or silvery. Seedling grasses can be stunted or killed and mature grass will also eventually die off.

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To learn even more about grass mites, check out our blog post