How to fight spider mite using ammonia? - briefly
Mix one part household ammonia with nine parts water, apply the solution thoroughly to affected leaves, and re‑spray every 5–7 days until the mites are gone. Use the spray sparingly, keep it away from beneficial insects, and rinse foliage after treatment to avoid plant damage.
How to fight spider mite using ammonia? - in detail
Ammonia can be an effective control agent for spider mites when applied correctly. The active component is the alkaline nature of the solution, which disrupts the mites’ respiratory system and desiccates their bodies.
Preparation of the spray
- Use household ammonia with a concentration of 5–10 % (typical clear‑store brand).
- Dilute one part ammonia with nine parts water to achieve a 0.5 % solution.
- Add a mild surfactant (e.g., a few drops of liquid dish soap) to improve leaf coverage.
Application procedure
- Test the mixture on a small leaf area for 24 hours to confirm plant tolerance.
- Apply the spray to the undersides of foliage where spider mites congregate; ensure thorough wetting.
- Treat both infested and surrounding healthy leaves to prevent spread.
Timing and frequency
- Apply early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid leaf burn from direct sunlight.
- Repeat treatment every 5–7 days until mite counts drop below economic threshold.
- After three consecutive applications with no visible mites, discontinue use.
Safety and environmental considerations
- Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid skin and respiratory irritation.
- Keep the solution away from edible parts of crops; do not use on food‑grade produce unless the plant is clearly non‑edible.
- Store ammonia in a sealed container away from children and pets.
Monitoring and follow‑up
- Inspect plants after each application using a hand lens or magnifying glass.
- Record mite numbers to evaluate effectiveness; adjust concentration only if tolerance is confirmed.
- Combine ammonia treatment with cultural controls such as proper watering, removal of heavily infested leaves, and introduction of predatory insects for long‑term management.
Limitations
- Sensitive plants (e.g., ferns, seedlings, certain ornamental species) may exhibit leaf scorch even at low concentrations; avoid use on these species.
- Repeated high‑dose applications can alter soil pH, potentially harming beneficial microbes; limit total annual applications to three to four cycles.
When used with precise dilution, protective equipment, and regular monitoring, ammonia provides a rapid, low‑cost method to suppress spider mite populations and protect plant health.