"Other researchers have made similar findings, showing that the use of neonics can lead to spider mite outbreaks in apple trees, elms and hemlock; ornamentals such as roses; and agricultural staples like soybeans. And a study in the Journal of Economic Entomology by Washington State University researchers found that spider mites laid more eggs when exposed to imidacloprid-treated bean plants."

"Her latest work, presented at the International Congress of Entomology in late September in Orlando, Florida, showed that when applied to corn, the neonic imidacloprid altered the activity of more than 600 genes involved in the production of cell walls and defense against pests. The activity of most of these genes was reduced. Szczepaniec suspects that reduced activity leads to more penetrable leaves and lower levels of pest-repelling hormones. No one knows that for sure, but it would explain why spider mites thrive in the presence of these pesticides."

See: http://www.newsweek.com/2016/11/11/neonicotinoid-pesticides-alter-plant-genetics-prompt-spider-mite-outbreaks-515965.html