Hello Gill. Thank you for your information. I used a spray for mites on roses hoping this works. The problem with the seedlings is that it is difficult to give them a blast from the hose as they would wash out of the pots. I also have them in a very gritty mix and find that the seedlings are drying out quickly as they have not developed enough roots so I have also changed my mixture for the seedlings. We do not get any frost but I am not able to keep them out of the rain and cold weather in Winter this is why I have been using this mix. I have also found that the dryer mix appears to attract mealy bugs on both the roots and under leaves. I hope that I have frightened the spider mites otherwise I will use your remedy and strip all the leaves.

Marlene Oz

Hello again Marlene, seems like you have also found your small pots/seedlings drying out very rapidly too. Yes, the hose will help larger established ones but small plants would be washed away as you say. I don't get mealies on roots but have had them above ground at times. It seems there is a critter suited to just every situation and plant, they are a real problem aren't they? The leaf stripping is very drastic but I can't see why it wouldn't work...that's my theory anyway, they soon bounce back with new clean foliage.
Wasn't certain of Hervey Bay location, see it's Qld, lovely state, been to Cairns and all over OZ, will have to check out Hervey Bay next!!
Gill UK

Hello Gill
Thank you for your advise and if you ever come to Hervey Bay please contact me as I can supply accommodation surrounded by hundreds of adenium plants.

Marlene OZ