How to kill spider mites at home? - briefly
Apply a miticide such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to the infested foliage, repeating the treatment every five to seven days until mites disappear. Increase leaf humidity by frequent misting and, if possible, introduce predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis for biological control.
How to kill spider mites at home? - in detail
Spider mites infestations can be managed effectively with a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical tactics.
Maintaining plant health reduces susceptibility; provide adequate watering, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, and ensure proper air circulation.
Physical removal methods include:
- Spraying leaves with a strong jet of water to dislodge mites and their webs.
- Wiping foliage with a soft cloth dampened with mild soapy solution.
Biological controls rely on predatory insects such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus. Introduce these agents according to label instructions, ensuring temperatures above 15 °C for optimal activity.
Botanical oils and soaps act as contact insecticides. Effective formulations consist of:
- Horticultural oil diluted to 1–2 % v/v; apply until runoff covers both upper and lower leaf surfaces.
- Insecticidal soap prepared at 2–5 % concentration; maintain a solution pH between 5.5 and 6.5 to avoid phytotoxicity.
- Neem oil mixed at 0.5 % concentration; repeat applications every 7–10 days during active infestations.
Synthetic acaricides may be employed when other measures fail. Select products labeled for indoor use, follow the recommended dosage, and observe the pre‑harvest interval. Rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance development.
Monitoring should continue after treatment. Use a hand lens or sticky traps to assess mite populations weekly. If numbers remain above threshold levels, repeat the most appropriate control method.
Preventive strategies include quarantining new plants, cleaning pots and trays, and regularly inspecting foliage. Implementing these steps creates an environment hostile to spider mite reproduction and limits future outbreaks.