Clover Mites
Biology
Clover mites are common pests in Ohio. These mites are most common in early spring in North America. They appear as dark red specks crawling around window sills or inside glass doors during the winter season on warm sunny days. Clover mites often invades home and buildings areas where the sun is warmest. Most people report infestations on the south or southwest side of the building. Clover mites lay tiny, reddish eggs usually under tree bark, foundation walls, and other protected locations. Eggs laid in the late spring lay dormant in the hot summer and hatch in the fall. In Ohio, there are at least two generations of clover mites each year. Females lay up to 70 eggs which do not need to be fertilized, thus all of the eggs are female.
Feeding Preferences
Clover mites feed by sucking sap from plants. They feed on clover, grass lawns, different types of trees, and shrubs. They do not cause very much damage.
Transmitted Diseases
Clover mites do not transmit human diseases.
Habits
Clover mites invading homes in the fall and spring when temperatures are trending warmer. Clover mites are normally not active during the summer and winter seasons. These mites are usually found in large groups in more lush grass lawns. They are not harmful to humans or pets, but if they are crushed, they leave a bright red stain.
Clover Mite Prevention
Effective control means preventing entry into your structure during their active times in the spring or the fall. The best way to prevent entry is to remove grasses and weeds in a three-foot strip around foundations. Some flowers and plants are less appealing to clover mites. If these plants are located near the house, it may serve as a deterrent. Examples of these plants and flowers include: petunia, salvia, geranium, chrysanthemum, rose, zinnia, yew, arborvitae, juniper and spruce.
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