How can I fight spider mites in a pot? - briefly
Use a strong jet of water to knock mites off the foliage, then treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil following label directions. Repeat the application every 5–7 days and keep the pot isolated to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I fight spider mites in a pot? - in detail
Spider mites rapidly colonize potted plants, feeding on cell contents and causing stippling, yellowing, and webbing. Prompt detection prevents severe damage.
Inspection should focus on the undersides of leaves, where tiny moving dots and fine silk threads appear. A hand lens or magnifying glass reveals the characteristic eight‑legged pests.
Cultural measures reduce population growth. Maintain humidity above 50 % by misting foliage or placing a tray of water near the pot. Avoid excessive fertilization with high nitrogen, which encourages rapid leaf development and mite reproduction. Remove heavily infested leaves and dispose of them away from the growing area.
Mechanical actions provide immediate reduction. Rinse plants with a strong jet of water, dislodging mites from leaf surfaces. For small pots, immerse the pot in a shallow bath of lukewarm water for several minutes, then allow excess water to drain. Repeating this process every 2–3 days during an outbreak removes the majority of the insects.
Biological and chemical options supplement cultural and mechanical tactics. Apply a commercial predatory mite preparation (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis) according to label instructions; predatory mites locate and consume spider mites within days. If rapid control is required, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage of leaf undersides. Spray early in the morning or late afternoon to minimize phototoxic effects. Rotate products with different active ingredients to prevent resistance.
Preventive practices maintain a hostile environment for future infestations. Quarantine new plants for at least 2 weeks, inspecting them before introduction. Keep pots free of dust, which provides a refuge for mites. Regularly monitor plants, employing a sticky trap placed near the foliage to capture wandering individuals and signal population spikes.