Clover Mites
Clover mites are tiny, reddish-brown mites that invade homes in large numbers during spring and fall, leaving red stains when crushed. They are smaller than a pinhead and are distinguished from other mites by their extremely long front pair of legs, which are often mistaken for antennae. They feed on lawn grasses, clover, and other plants in well-fertilized, sunny turf adjacent to foundations. Heavy infestations can involve tens of thousands of mites entering through cracks around windows and doors on the sun-warmed side of buildings.
Species in This Group (1)
Key Behaviors
Clover mites are most active in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. They aggregate on sun-warmed exterior walls and enter buildings through tiny gaps around windows, doors, and foundation joints. They do not reproduce indoors. Heavily fertilized lawns, particularly those growing right up to the foundation, produce the worst infestations. They avoid crossing bare soil or gravel, making a plant-free strip around the foundation an effective barrier.
Risks & Concerns
Clover mites do not bite humans or animals and do not damage structures or belongings. When crushed, they leave distinctive red-orange stains on walls, curtains, window sills, and light-colored surfaces. These stains are their primary nuisance impact. A six-to-eighteen-inch strip of gravel or bare soil between turf and the foundation is the most effective prevention measure.
Need Help With Clover mites?
If you're seeing signs of clover mites in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.