Cyclamen Mites

• Mites are not classified as true insects but rather belong to the spider family. They are so tiny that they are usually detected only by the damage they cause to the leaves of the plant. Cyclamen mites are the type that causes the most damage to African violets. Control the mite infestation with the use of a pesticide specifically designed for African violets. Early detection is important, so check your plants regularly for damage to new growth.
  
  

Types of Pesticides

• Acephate and diazinon are pesticides that are effective against cyclamen mites, as are dicotol and endosulfan. Check label ingredients for these chemicals when choosing a pesticide to combat mite infestation on African violets. Insecticidal soaps used in a 1 percent to 3 percent concentration spray are also effective against mites.
  
  

Other Treatments

• Mites are so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye, so it is necessary to use precautions against spreading the infestation. Segregate any infected plants to prevent mites from spreading to other plants. If possible, treat infected plants outdoors, especially when using sprays. Use only pesticides that are designed for houseplants and not garden-type ones. Discard heavily infected plants and sterilize any garden tools used on these plants. Do not use any pots that have held plants infected with mites.
  
  

History of the African Violets

• The African violet, discovered in 1892 by Baron Walter von Saint Paul in northeast Tanga of eastern Africa, is a popular houseplant. The baron sent the seeds or the actual plant to his father in Germany, and their popularity spread in Europe. Herman Wendlan, a prominent botanist from the Royal Botanical Gardens in Herrenhausen, Germany, named the plant genus Saintpaulia in recognition of the baron, according to Auburn University.