How to treat a houseplant for spider mites? - briefly
Wash the leaves with lukewarm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap, then treat the plant with neem oil or an insecticidal soap spray every 5‑7 days until mites disappear. Keep the plant isolated and reduce humidity to prevent recurrence.
How to treat a houseplant for spider mites? - in detail
Spider mite infestations on indoor foliage require prompt, systematic action. First, confirm presence by inspecting undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks, webbing, or stippled discoloration. Separate the affected plant from healthy specimens to prevent spread.
Immediate control measures
- Rinse the plant with a strong stream of lukewarm water, directing the flow over both leaf surfaces. Repeat every 2–3 days for a week.
- Apply a dilute solution of insecticidal soap (1 tsp per quart of water). Spray until runoff, covering the entire plant, especially the leaf undersides. Reapply every 5–7 days until mites disappear.
- Use horticultural oil (e.g., neem or mineral oil) at the manufacturer’s recommended concentration. Oil suffocates mites and eggs. Apply in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid leaf scorch; repeat weekly for three applications.
Chemical options (reserved for severe cases)
- Select a miticide labeled for indoor use, such as abamectin or bifenthrin. Follow label instructions precisely, observing ventilation requirements and re‑entry intervals.
- Rotate chemicals with differing modes of action to delay resistance development.
Environmental adjustments
- Increase ambient humidity to 50–70 % by misting nearby surfaces or using a humidifier; spider mites thrive in dry conditions.
- Raise temperature modestly (22–25 °C) to accelerate plant metabolism and aid recovery.
- Ensure adequate air circulation with a fan, reducing microclimates where mites can proliferate.
Preventive practices
- Quarantine new acquisitions for at least two weeks, inspecting them before integration.
- Clean potting media periodically; replace if heavily soiled.
- Avoid over‑fertilizing, which creates tender growth favored by mites.
- Conduct routine visual checks every 1–2 weeks, especially during warm months.
By integrating mechanical removal, botanical oils, targeted soaps, and environmental management, most indoor plant mite problems can be eliminated without resorting to broad‑spectrum pesticides. Consistent monitoring and preventive hygiene sustain plant health and minimize recurrence.