How to combat spider mites on indoor plants? - briefly
Increase humidity, regularly wash foliage with a strong stream of water, and treat affected leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil; for persistent infestations, introduce predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis. Isolate the plant, monitor closely, and repeat treatments every 5‑7 days until mites disappear.
How to combat spider mites on indoor plants? - in detail
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that thrive on the undersides of leaves, causing stippling, yellowing, and webbing. Early detection relies on inspecting foliage with a magnifying glass; look for fine specks of damage and silk threads. Once an infestation is confirmed, a multi‑layered approach yields the best results.
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Cultural measures: Keep humidity above 50 % by misting plants or using a humidifier, as dry air favors mite reproduction. Avoid overcrowding; provide adequate airflow by spacing pots and rotating them regularly. Remove heavily infested leaves to reduce population pressure.
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Mechanical removal: Rinse plants with a strong stream of lukewarm water, directing flow onto the leaf underside to dislodge mites and webs. For delicate species, use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in soapy water to wipe affected areas.
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Soap‑based sprays: Prepare a solution of 1 % mild liquid dish soap in water, or purchase a commercial horticultural soap. Apply thoroughly, ensuring coverage of both leaf surfaces. Reapply every 5–7 days until no new damage appears.
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Oil treatments: Horticultural oils (e.g., neem, mineral oil) suffocate mites. Dilute according to label instructions, spray until leaves are wet but not dripping, and repeat weekly for two to three cycles.
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Biological agents: Introduce predatory insects such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus, which actively hunt spider mites. Release rates depend on plant size; follow supplier guidelines for optimal results.
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Chemical options: If non‑chemical tactics fail, select an acaricide labeled for indoor use, such as abamectin or spirotetramat. Apply at the recommended concentration, observe safety intervals, and rotate with a different mode of action to prevent resistance.
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Preventive practices: Quarantine new acquisitions for at least two weeks, inspecting them for signs of infestation before integrating them into the collection. Maintain consistent watering schedules to avoid plant stress, which can predispose foliage to mite attacks.
Monitoring should continue for several weeks after treatment, as eggs may hatch after the initial application. A combination of environmental management, physical removal, targeted sprays, and, when necessary, biological or chemical controls will keep indoor plants free from spider mite damage.