Clover mites are tiny, reddish-brown arachnids, related to spiders and ticks. Barely visible, they measure about 0.03 to 0.033 inches (0.75-0.85 millimeters) long. Their oval bodies range from reddish-brown to dark greenish-brown, with eight legs, the front pair unusually long. While they do not bite humans or pets or transmit diseases, they can become a nuisance when invading structures in large numbers.
Clover Mite Lifespan
The typical lifespan of an adult clover mite is approximately two weeks. Environmental factors, particularly temperature and humidity, significantly influence this duration. Clover mites thrive in cooler temperatures, generally between 50°F and 75°F.
When temperatures exceed 85°F, adult mites and their eggs can enter a dormant state until cooler conditions return. They also become inactive during cold winter months. This adaptability allows them to survive unfavorable periods, impacting their presence throughout the year.
Clover Mite Life Cycle
Clover mites progress through developmental stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Female clover mites reproduce without mating, a process called parthenogenesis, laying approximately 70 eggs each. These bright red, spherical eggs are often deposited in protected areas:
Cracks and crevices on foundations
Around window frames
Under siding
Beneath loose tree bark
Eggs laid in the fall can overwinter, hatching in early spring when temperatures reach at least 45°F. Newly hatched larvae are bright red and have six legs. As they develop into nymphs, they acquire eight legs, resembling adults. Each immature stage lasts between two to six days, contributing to a rapid generation time of about one month from egg to adult.
Why Clover Mites Appear Indoors
Clover mites inhabit outdoor environments, feeding on plants like lawn grasses, clover, and various ornamental plants. They are prevalent in well-fertilized lawns and areas with lush vegetation. Mites seek shelter or warmth, migrating indoors during seasonal temperature changes, such as early spring and late autumn.
Their small size allows entry through tiny cracks and openings around windows, doors, and foundations. Moisture and dense vegetation against a home’s exterior create favorable conditions, encouraging mites to move closer. Sunny sides of buildings, often south or southwest facing, also attract them due to warmth and light.
Managing Clover Mites
Managing clover mites involves preventive measures to stop them from entering structures. Sealing cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations with caulk or weatherstripping effectively blocks common entry points. Creating a vegetation-free barrier around the home’s perimeter is another strategy. An 18 to 24-inch wide strip, cleared of plants and covered with materials like pea gravel or crushed rock, deters mites from reaching the foundation.
If mites are present indoors, vacuuming is recommended. Avoid crushing them, as they can leave red stains. After vacuuming, seal and immediately discard the vacuum bag to prevent mites from escaping. Maintaining a healthy lawn and avoiding over-fertilization also helps reduce outdoor populations. For persistent or large infestations, consulting a pest control professional may be beneficial for targeted exterior treatments.