How to get rid of spider mite on a houseplant? - briefly
Treat infested foliage with a strong jet of water to dislodge mites, then apply a miticide such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, repeating the application every 5‑7 days until the population disappears.
How to get rid of spider mite on a houseplant? - in detail
Spider mites thrive in warm, dry conditions and rapidly colonize foliage. Early detection prevents severe damage; look for stippled leaves, fine webbing, and tiny moving specks on the undersides of leaves.
Physical removal involves wiping each leaf with a damp cloth or spraying the plant with a strong jet of water. This method dislodges mites and reduces population density.
Chemical and biological options include:
- Insecticidal soap: Apply a solution containing 1–2 % potassium salts of fatty acids. Cover all leaf surfaces, repeat every five to seven days until no mites are observed.
- Neem oil: Mix 0.5 % neem oil with water and a few drops of mild detergent. Spray thoroughly, ensuring runoff reaches the soil to affect crawling stages.
- Predatory mites (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis): Release commercially available colonies onto the plant. Maintain humidity above 60 % to support predator activity.
Cultural practices that discourage mite development:
- Increase ambient humidity by misting leaves or using a humidifier.
- Avoid excessive fertilization with high nitrogen, which promotes soft new growth favored by mites.
- Provide adequate airflow while shielding the plant from direct drafts that dry foliage.
When using any spray, test on a small leaf area first to confirm tolerance. Remove dead or heavily infested leaves to reduce breeding sites. Consistent monitoring and prompt intervention keep the plant mite‑free and healthy.