Unpleasant leaf abnormalities stemming from the vine-pox mite, generally posing no significant harm
In the world of vine cultivation, a small but persistent pest known as vine leaf mites can pose a challenge. These mites, which resemble the dreaded phylloxera in their destructive potential, are controlled in commercial settings using sulfur preparations commonly used for mildew treatment.
Each spring, as the wine starts to grow, the vine leaf mites reappear, forming several generations per year, partly through parthenogenesis. These mites infest the vine leaves, causing large galls that resemble both the infestations of phylloxera and powdery mildew. However, it's important to note that the vine leaf mites retreat behind bud scales or into the bark to hibernate in September.
The traces of vine leaf mites are an aesthetic problem, posing no danger to humans. The pustule-like bumps on the leaves are caused by the mites as they secret a felt-like substance during their sucking activity. This substance protects the mites from predators, with the mites living in or under it.
For hobby gardeners, the use of contact poisons in the garden is prohibited and usually unnecessary. While the infestation may appear dramatic, it should not lead hobby gardeners to part with their vines. The grapes will still develop plump and taste sweet as usual, despite the presence of vine leaf mites.
It's worth mentioning that phylloxera, a pest that destroyed 2.5 million hectares of vineyards in the mid-19th century, is not fully under control despite grafting methods. However, the vine leaf mite infestation should not cause undue panic.
In conclusion, vine leaf mites are a common pest in vine cultivation, causing aesthetic damage but no harm to humans. While they can pose a threat to crop yields under favorable conditions, proper management strategies can help control their population and minimize their impact on vineyards.
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