Where can a spider mite appear? - briefly
Spider mites commonly infest the undersides of leaves on a wide range of plants, including greenhouse crops, outdoor vegetables, fruit trees, ornamental species, and indoor houseplants. They proliferate in warm, dry environments where dense foliage provides shelter and food.
Where can a spider mite appear? - in detail
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that thrive on the undersides of leaves, stems, and fruit surfaces where they can feed on plant sap. Their presence is most common in environments that provide a combination of suitable host plants and favorable microclimates.
Indoor settings where spider mites are frequently encountered include:
- Houseplants such as ficus, pothos, and succulents.
- Commercial greenhouse operations growing tomatoes, cucumbers, and ornamental flowers.
- Indoor ornamental displays in offices, hotels, and retail spaces.
Outdoor locations that support infestations comprise:
- Field crops like strawberries, beans, and cotton.
- Landscape plantings of roses, azaleas, and boxwood.
- Wild vegetation along hedgerows, forest edges, and riparian zones.
Within individual plants, spider mites concentrate on:
- The lower leaf surface, where stomata provide easy access to sap.
- Young, rapidly expanding foliage that offers tender tissue.
- Fruit skins and tender shoots during reproductive stages.
Population surges occur when temperature exceeds 20 °C (68 °F) and relative humidity remains below 60 %. Dry, warm air accelerates their reproduction and dispersal, while dense foliage and high humidity suppress development. Consequently, any setting that combines these climatic factors with susceptible vegetation creates an optimal habitat for spider mite colonization.