Critters on Plants from Festival - Info?

[ihateweeds]

I bought lots of tomato plants at the fest, and I did notice the basic White critters which we do have in the Chicago area. In addition, I brought back a tiny red critter, which I was kind enough to share with my garden group here.
Does any one know what these are? Are the red spider mites? I can pick them off the plants with no problem. Gave everything a soap bath last night (first chance I got - I did have them isolated).
None of us have seen these critted before in this area. Are we adding new critters to our invironment here? Is this a good thing? Thanks for sharing.
Mickey

[Cliff Timmons]

That is a Missouri Twang Mite.
They start on the tomatoes themselves, then when your not expecting it, it jumps right into the Miracle Whip.
After ingesting this seemilgly innocent critter, your tounge will begin to swell, and you will be unable to pronounce words. Your "Golly Gees" will turn into Gollllllllllllieeeeeee.

It starts off small then grows into a full fledged Ozarkian twang.

It's nothing to worry about,.... unless your wanting to be gainfully employed.

[ihateweeds]

Gee, Cliff thanks for the useful information! I'll be sure to pass this on to those I have infected with the Missour "a" twang! Can't wait to taste 'em!
: )
Mickey

[Cliff Timmons]

I don't know my litte red critters that well. Could be spider mites or chiggers are red aren't they?

[dirtundernails]

The adult chigger mite is red. That's not what bites ya, it's the larva. I bet it's spider mites. Watch for little webs forming. Your removal method is effective if that is the buggie.
Cliff, do they taste alright without the Miracle Whip?

dun

[Cliff Timmons]

I duuno.
Reckon how many it takes for a sandwich?

[winter_unfazed]

The main problem here is the Japanese beetle.

[Cliff Timmons]

The main problem here is the Japanese beetle.
AMEN!

[ceresone]

My son had these on his tomatoes too! i've gardened for years, and never have i seen them, or such a infestation--they dont make webs--look like a BIG red spider mite. all i can see that they do is suck the juices from the plants-which is enough. Pyola sprays dont eridicate them either.

[goldpearl]

Aphids are lady bug food. I am not sure if they like them with miracle whip or ketchup. A good spray of water should knock them off your plants. Maybe put up a big sign to let the lady bugs know dinner is on the table.