How to use green soap against spider mites? - briefly
Dilute a few teaspoons of green soap in one gallon of water, spray the solution thoroughly onto affected leaves—including the undersides—until runoff, and repeat every 5–7 days until the mites are eliminated. Apply the spray in the early morning or late evening to minimize leaf scorch and maximize effectiveness.
How to use green soap against spider mites? - in detail
Green soap is an effective contact insecticide for spider mites when applied correctly. The solution must be prepared at a concentration that kills mites without harming plant tissue. Dissolve 1–2 tablespoons of liquid green soap in 1 gallon of water, stirring until fully mixed. For delicate foliage, reduce the dosage to ½ tablespoon per gallon.
Before spraying, test the mixture on a small leaf area and wait 24 hours. If no discoloration or wilting occurs, proceed with full coverage. Apply the solution to both upper and lower leaf surfaces, ensuring a thin, even film that completely coats the plant. Use a fine‑mist sprayer to reach hidden undersides where mites reside.
Optimal timing is early morning or late afternoon, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperatures that can increase leaf burn. Repeat applications every 5–7 days until mite populations are suppressed, typically three to five treatments. If heavy infestations persist, increase frequency to every 3 days for a short period, then revert to the standard interval.
Integrate green soap treatment with cultural controls: maintain adequate humidity, prune heavily infested branches, and remove plant debris that shelters mites. Do not combine with oil‑based sprays or products containing high concentrations of surfactants, as this may cause phytotoxicity. Store any unused solution in a sealed container, labeled, and discard after 14 days to prevent microbial growth.
Safety measures include wearing gloves and eye protection during mixing and application. Keep the solution away from edible parts of crops and wash hands thoroughly after use. Properly calibrated equipment and adherence to the described protocol maximize mite mortality while preserving plant health.