How to treat spider mites on ZZ plant? - briefly
Apply a thorough spray of «neem oil» or insecticidal soap, covering both leaf surfaces, and repeat every 5–7 days until mites disappear. Increase ambient humidity and prune heavily infested foliage to prevent recurrence.
How to treat spider mites on ZZ plant? - in detail
Spider mite infestation on a ZZ plant requires prompt detection and a multi‑step approach. First, inspect leaves for stippled discoloration, fine webbing, and tiny moving specks. Damage typically appears on the underside of foliage; a magnifying lens helps confirm presence.
Physical removal reduces population density. Rinse the plant with a strong stream of lukewarm water, directing flow onto the leaf undersides. Repeat weekly until no mites are observed. For persistent colonies, wipe each leaf with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol (70 % solution) to kill individual pests.
Organic sprays provide effective control while preserving beneficial insects. Prepare a solution of neem oil at 1 % concentration mixed with water and a few drops of mild dish‑soap as an emulsifier. Apply to all leaf surfaces, ensuring thorough coverage of the undersides. Reapply every seven days for three to four applications.
Insecticidal soaps are another option. Use a commercially available product containing potassium salts of fatty acids, diluted according to label instructions. Spray until runoff, focusing on affected areas. Repeat every five days until the infestation subsides.
If organic measures fail, consider a synthetic miticide such as abamectin. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines precisely; apply only as a last resort to avoid resistance development and phytotoxicity.
Cultural practices help prevent recurrence. Maintain humidity above 50 % by misting or using a humidifier, as dry conditions favor spider mite reproduction. Avoid placing the plant in direct, intense sunlight, which stresses foliage and reduces its defensive capacity. Regularly prune heavily infested stems and dispose of them away from healthy plants.
Monitoring completes the management cycle. Conduct weekly inspections, especially during warm months, and record any signs of resurgence. Early detection combined with the outlined interventions ensures long‑term health of the ZZ plant.