How should I spray indoor plants to control spider mites? - briefly
Prepare a spray of 1–2 % neem oil or insecticidal soap diluted in water and coat all foliage, especially the undersides. Apply daily for several days, then every 5–7 days until spider mites are eliminated.
How should I spray indoor plants to control spider mites? - in detail
Spraying indoor foliage to manage spider mites requires accurate identification, appropriate solution, and disciplined application.
First, confirm the presence of mites by examining undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks and fine webbing. Remove heavily infested leaves to reduce population pressure.
Select a control agent:
- Insecticidal soap (2–5 % solution) – penetrates the mite’s cuticle and causes desiccation.
- Neem oil (1 % concentration) – interferes with feeding and reproduction.
- Horticultural oil (0.5–1 % concentration) – suffocates all life stages.
- Pyrethrin spray (0.5 % concentration) – rapid knock‑down, limited residual activity.
Prepare the spray by diluting the product in lukewarm water according to label instructions. Add a few drops of mild surfactant if using oil‑based formulations to improve leaf coverage.
Application guidelines:
- Apply in the early morning or late evening when light intensity is low; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
- Ensure thorough wetting of the leaf’s underside; mist until runoff occurs.
- Treat all plants in the vicinity, as mites migrate between hosts.
- Repeat every 5–7 days until no mites are observed for two consecutive inspections, typically 3–4 applications.
Environmental considerations:
- Maintain indoor humidity above 50 % to discourage mite reproduction; use a humidifier or place trays of water near plants.
- Keep temperature between 20 °C and 25 °C; extreme heat reduces spray efficacy and can stress plants.
Safety measures:
- Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid skin irritation.
- Ventilate the room during and after spraying to prevent buildup of vapors.
- Store remaining solution in a sealed container, away from children and pets.
After the final treatment, monitor plants weekly for at least one month. If re‑infestation occurs, repeat the spray cycle or introduce a predatory mite species as a biological complement. This systematic approach maximizes control while preserving plant health.