Natural Methods to Eliminate Clover Mites

If you've noticed clover mites in your home or garden, their presence can be concerning due to their small red appearance. When crushed, they leave behind red stains on walls or furniture. While these tiny mites may seem alarming, they are generally harmless to humans, although they can damage your plants in both lawns and gardens.

These minute red mites (Bryobia praetiosa) feed by piercing leaves and flowers to consume plant sap, which can result in discolored, stunted growth. Though clover mites don’t spread plant diseases or typically kill healthy plants, they can cause considerable damage to more fragile plants. “Clover mites are tiny arachnids infesting lawns and gardens, damaging plants, and becoming a nuisance to homeowners,” explains Matthew Wilson, CEO of Handy Gardeners.

The great news is that you can easily remove these troublesome pests from your home and garden, along with taking measures to stop them from spreading. Experts in landscaping and pest control provide valuable advice on how to get rid of clover mites and keep them from entering your home and yard.

Natural Approaches to Combat Clover Mites

Start with natural, non-toxic solutions to defend against clover mites. These remedies can effectively kill the tiny red pests without putting your health or the environment at risk.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a widely recognized, safe, and non-toxic method to get rid of clover mites. “For natural control, diatomaceous earth can be very effective,” says Steve Sylva, owner of Steve’s Services, a landscaping company located in Malden, MA. “Sprinkling it in affected areas forms a barrier that dries out the mites.”

Essential Oils

Sylva suggests that essential oils such as peppermint or clove oil can effectively help repel clover mites. He recommends combining a few drops of essential oil with water and spraying it around the perimeter of your home to keep the mites at bay.

Neem Oil

Another natural solution to eliminate clover mites is by using neem oil. Neem oil interferes with the life cycle of mites and works as a natural pesticide. "Neem oil is a powerful natural insecticide that can eliminate clover mites," says Wilson. "Simply mix neem oil with water as instructed on the product label and spray it on affected areas."

To prepare a strong neem oil pesticide, combine 1 gallon of warm water with 1 to 2 teaspoons of dish detergent. The dish detergent acts as an emulsifier, helping the neem oil blend with the water. Afterward, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of neem oil to the mixture. Spray this solution around doorways and areas of your home or garden where clover mites are present.

Garlic and Chili Pepper

Other natural repellents to protect your plants from clover mites include garlic and chili pepper spray. “Crush some garlic or chilies and mix them with water, then strain the mixture before applying it to the plants,” advises Wilson.

Physically Removing Clover Mites from Your Home

An additional method to safeguard your home from clover mites is by physically removing the tiny red arachnids. Vacuuming is one of the most effective ways to eliminate clover mite infestations from your living space.

“Physically eliminating clover mites can be achieved by vacuuming,” says Sylva. “Make sure to use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to prevent the mites from spreading. After vacuuming, seal the bag tightly and dispose of it right away. Regularly cleaning the affected areas with soap and water can also help remove any lingering mites and their eggs.”

If clover mites attack your plants, you can use physical barriers like mesh netting to protect them. “Use physical barriers like row covers or fine mesh netting to protect vulnerable plants against clover mite infestations,” Wilson says.

Tips for Preventing Clover Mites

Clean your home and yard regularly to help prevent clover mites. Remove weeds and cut your grass frequently. Ensure your soil is well-draining to eliminate places for clover mites to gather and feed. Clover mites love feasting on moist lawns. To prevent this, keep a strip of your lawn around your home (18 to 24 inches) free of grass, weeds, and mulch. You can replace mulch with dry materials like pea gravel or crushed rock.

“Maintain your lawn by regularly mowing and removing excess thatch,” Wilson says. “Clover mites thrive in dense vegetation, so a healthy lawn maintained with proper aeration and drainage can discourage their proliferation.”

If clover mites are entering your home, check for cracks around doors and windows. Seal and caulk any entryway areas that leave gaps for mites to enter. Vacuum regularly and wash your linens frequently to keep your home free of clover mites. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• If natural methods aren't effective, what chemical options should I consider?

  If natural remedies fail to control the clover mites in your home or if they return, it may be necessary to use chemical treatments.

  “Insecticides should generally be a last resort,” says Sylva. “However, they become essential when natural solutions can't handle a heavy infestation. I recommend products that contain bifenthrin or permethrin for reliable control. These chemicals are safe when applied as directed and can provide long-term relief by killing mites on contact.”

  When using insecticides indoors, always follow the instructions on the product packaging, ensure proper ventilation, and wear goggles and protective clothing. Spray around doors, windows, and other entry points to eliminate clover mites. Be aware that chemical treatments can harm beneficial insects and plants, so apply chemicals carefully and keep children and pets away from treated areas.

• When should professional help be called for clover mites?

  If your DIY efforts haven’t cleared the clover mites from your home or they keep reappearing, it’s time to contact a pest control professional. “Large infestations or recurring issues often require professional intervention,” explains Sylva.

  “If the problem persists despite using DIY methods, it’s time to call in specialists who can apply stronger, more precise treatments and monitor the situation to prevent future flare-ups.”

  A pest control expert will assess your home and yard for clover mites and create a personalized treatment plan to eliminate them. They can also offer advice on how to prevent future infestations.