How do I sanitize tools after mite exposure?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Spider mites can persist on tools and soil for weeks at a time, so prompt sanitation will disrupt their life cycle and help prevent reinfestation of your crop. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol on metal tools and solarization for soil that may have been contaminated. Don't use bleach, as it can corrode steel tools and potentially kill beneficial microbes in the soil. It is best to prioritize treatments that will destroy eggs while minimizing the risk of residue harming crops.
Tool Disinfection
- Alcohol soak: Submerge pruners in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 5 minutes
- Rinsing: Use distilled water to prevent mineral deposits
- Drying: Air-dry completely to avoid rust on carbon steel
Soil Treatment
- Solarization: Bake soil at 160°F (71°C) for 30 minutes
- Oven method: Spread soil on baking trays 1 inch thick
- Post-treatment: Cool before reusing to preserve nutrients
Preventative Measures
- Post-use routine: Clean tools after each gardening session
- Pot sterilization: Boil clay pots in water for 10 minutes
- Glove hygiene: Wash fabric gloves in 130°F (54°C) water
It is important to avoid any alcohol use on wooden handles, as alcohol will dry out and crack the wood. It is recommended to use hydrogen peroxide. Soak the wooden handles in peroxide for approximately 3 minutes, then rinse well. For plastic tools, you can use a 10% bleach solution, but this can discolor the surface. In all instances, you must check products in a small area first.
During summer heat waves in an outdoor location, solarize the soil. Seal in black plastic bags for up to 72 hours. The temperatures in the bags can exceed 180°F (82 °C). This will kill mites and weed seeds. I have reused over 200 lbs of soil using this technique and have had no issues with reinfestation.
Sanitize tools and place them in a sealed container. Mites travel on dust. Use alcohol wipes to wipe off the blades of tools before putting them away. If you have a heavy infestation, continue to wipe off the blades every week. I had one client with an 80% reduction in mites after he started performing this procedure consistently after harvesting.
Read the full article: Spider Mite Control: Proven Strategies for Healthy Plants
