The Damage that Harvest Mites Can Do

If you have spent time in long grass or garden beds around Melbourne over the warmer months and come away with intensely itchy red bites around your ankles or waistline, harvest mites are a likely cause.

What are harvest mites?

Harvest mite larvae are barely visible to the naked eye and live in grass, garden beds and leaf litter. They do not burrow under the skin, but they inject digestive enzymes that cause a strong itchy reaction.

What do harvest mite bites look like?

The bites appear as small, intensely itchy red welts, usually in clusters. They turn up most often around ankles, waistbands and skin folds, anywhere clothing sits tight against skin.

• Small, intensely itchy red welts, often clustered
• Concentrated around ankles, waistbands and skin folds
• Itching that can persist for several days
• Secondary skin irritation from repeated scratching

When are harvest mites most active in Melbourne?

They are most active from late spring through summer and into early autumn, the same period Melbourne gardens see the most use. Risk is highest in long grass and undisturbed garden beds.

How do you reduce your exposure?

Keep lawns mowed, clear long grass and garden debris, and avoid sitting directly on grass in known problem areas. Showering soon after being in long grass and washing the clothes you wore removes mites before they bite.

If harvest mites are a recurring issue in your garden, 4S Pest Control can assess the property and treat problem areas as part of a broader pest plan. Call 0412 412 139.