Florida Limited Lawn and Ornamental Practice Exam

A heavy infestation of spider mites is most notably indicated by the presence of webbing on the plants. Spider mites produce fine, silk-like webs as they feed and reproduce, and a significant amount of webbing is a clear sign that these pests have established a strong population on the plant. This webbing can cover not only the leaves but also the stems and flowers, creating a noticeable and alarming symptom of infestation.

While yellowing leaves, wilting flowers, and stunted growth can also occur as a result of spider mite feeding, these symptoms are more common and less specific to this pest. For example, yellowing leaves might indicate various issues, including nutrient deficiencies or other pests, while wilting can result from several factors like overwatering or root problems. Stunted growth is similarly a more generalized symptom. Thus, the buildup of webbing specifically points to a severe spider mite problem, making it the most definitive indicator of their presence.