What should I do if a rose has spider mites? - briefly
Inspect the plant, spray it with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites, then treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil applied every 5‑7 days until the infestation disappears. Remove heavily damaged foliage and keep the rose well‑ventilated to prevent recurrence.
What should I do if a rose has spider mites? - in detail
If a rose shows signs of spider mite infestation, begin with a careful inspection. Look for tiny, moving specks on the undersides of leaves, stippled discoloration, and fine webbing. Confirm the presence before treatment.
- Isolation – Separate the affected plant from other roses to prevent spreading.
- Physical removal – Spray the foliage with a strong jet of water, focusing on the leaf undersides, to dislodge mites and webs. Repeat every few days for a week.
- Cultural measures – Increase air circulation by pruning crowded branches. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer, which encourages soft, mite‑friendly growth. Keep soil moisture consistent but avoid overhead watering that creates a humid environment favorable to pests.
- Biological control – Introduce predatory insects such as ladybird beetles, lacewings, or predatory mites (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis). Release them according to supplier instructions, usually one to two weeks after the initial water spray.
- Organic miticides – Apply horticultural oil (e.g., neem or mineral oil) or insecticidal soap. Cover the entire plant, especially the leaf undersides, with a fine mist. Follow label rates, reapply every 7–10 days until mites disappear.
- Chemical options – If the infestation persists, use a synthetic acaricide containing abamectin or bifenthrin. Rotate products to avoid resistance, observe pre‑harvest intervals, and wear protective gear during application.
Monitor the rose weekly. Absence of new webbing and stippling for at least two weeks indicates successful control. Should symptoms reappear, repeat the water spray and re‑apply the chosen miticide, adjusting the schedule based on environmental conditions.