How can spider mites be controlled on indoor plants? - briefly
Apply a neem‑oil or miticide spray to the foliage, repeating the treatment every 5–7 days and isolating the plant to limit spread. Keep humidity low and remove dust by wiping leaves to suppress mite reproduction.
How can spider mites be controlled on indoor plants? - in detail
Spider mites thrive in warm, dry indoor environments and can quickly infest foliage, causing stippling, yellowing, and leaf drop. Early detection relies on inspecting the undersides of leaves with a magnifying glass; tiny moving dots or fine webbing indicate an active infestation.
Cultural measures reduce mite populations by creating unfavorable conditions. Maintain ambient humidity above 60 % through regular misting or a humidifier; high humidity interferes with mite reproduction. Avoid excessive fertilization with high nitrogen, which promotes tender growth that attracts pests. Remove dead or yellowing leaves promptly to eliminate shelter.
Mechanical removal physically eliminates mites. A steady stream of lukewarm water applied to the plant’s foliage dislodges both insects and webs. For heavily infested specimens, gently wipe leaf surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water (a few drops of mild dish detergent per liter). Repeat the treatment every five to seven days until no mites are observed.
Biological agents provide sustainable control. Predatory insects such as Phytoseiulus persimilis and Neoseiulus californicus consume large numbers of spider mites and can be introduced according to the manufacturer’s dosage recommendations. Fungal biopesticides containing Beauveria bassiana infect mites on contact and persist for several weeks under suitable humidity.
Chemical options are reserved for severe outbreaks. Select a miticide labeled for indoor use, preferably one with a low toxicity profile, and follow the label’s concentration and application intervals precisely. Rotate active ingredients between treatments to prevent resistance development; common classes include neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and spirotetramat‐based products.
Monitoring continues after treatment. Inspect plants weekly, recording any recurrence of mites or webbing. Adjust humidity, watering, and nutrient regimes as needed to sustain a hostile environment for the pest. Integrated management—combining cultural, mechanical, biological, and, when necessary, chemical tactics—offers the most reliable means of keeping spider mites under control on indoor foliage.