How to get rid of spider mites from a kalanchoe? - briefly
Remove infested foliage, wash the plant thoroughly with a strong stream of water, then treat the remaining leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil, repeating the application every 5‑7 days until mites disappear. Maintain low humidity and avoid overhead watering to prevent recurrence.
How to get rid of spider mites from a kalanchoe? - in detail
Spider mites infestations on kalanchoe require prompt detection and systematic treatment. Begin with a thorough visual inspection; look for fine webbing on leaf undersides and speckled discoloration caused by feeding. Separate the affected plant from healthy specimens to prevent spread.
Physical removal is the first line of defense. Rinse the foliage with a strong stream of lukewarm water, directing the spray onto the undersides of leaves where mites reside. Repeat the rinse every 2–3 days for two weeks to dislodge any remaining individuals.
If water alone proves insufficient, apply a soap‑based solution. Mix 1 teaspoon of pure liquid soap (no additives) with 1 liter of water. Mist the entire plant until runoff, ensuring coverage of leaf margins and stems. Reapply every 5–7 days, monitoring for leaf burn.
For persistent populations, introduce a botanical oil such as neem. Dilute 2 ml of cold‑pressed neem oil in 1 liter of water, adding a few drops of mild surfactant to improve adherence. Spray the mixture onto all foliage, repeating weekly for three applications.
Chemical miticides may be employed as a last resort when organic measures fail. Choose a product labeled for spider mites and safe for succulents. Follow label directions precisely, observing pre‑harvest intervals and protective equipment requirements.
Environmental adjustments support long‑term control. Maintain indoor humidity above 50 % by misting nearby surfaces or using a humidifier; low humidity favors mite reproduction. Increase air circulation with a gentle fan, avoiding direct drafts that could stress the plant. Keep temperatures between 20 °C and 25 °C; extreme heat accelerates mite life cycles.
Prevention relies on routine hygiene. Inspect new acquisitions before introduction, quarantine for at least two weeks, and clean pots and tools with 70 % isopropyl alcohol. Periodically wipe leaf surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust that serves as a food source.
Summary of actionable steps:
- Inspect leaves regularly for webbing and stippling.
- Isolate infested specimens.
- Rinse foliage with lukewarm water, repeat bi‑weekly.
- Apply soap spray (1 tsp / L water) every 5–7 days.
- Use neem oil solution (2 ml / L water) weekly if needed.
- Resort to labeled miticide only after organic methods fail.
- Raise humidity, improve airflow, maintain optimal temperature.
- Quarantine and sanitize new plants and equipment.
Consistent application of these measures eliminates spider mites and preserves the health of kalanchoe cultivars.