Pests on houseplants are never welcome, but they are sometimes inevitable.
Today, we’ll be focusing on spider mites.
While not the worst pest (that dubious honour goes to thrips...) spider mites are still a significant concern. Thankfully, I’ve successfully battled them several times so let's get into it!
Understanding Spider Mites: What They Are and Where They Come From
Spider mites are tiny pests, almost invisible to the naked eye, that feed exclusively on plants. The most common type on houseplants is the two-spotted spider mite. These arachnids have eight legs and are related to spiders and ticks but are so tiny they look like a speck of dust. They don’t bite humans but use tiny mouthparts to pierce plant cells. Spider mites can enter your home on new plants, through open windows, or on your clothes and pets.
Plants and Conditions That Attract Spider Mites
Spider mites feast on a variety of plants and while they will live on any of your indoor plants, some are a more susceptible than others. Theses include alocasia, calathea, philodendrons and other plants with particularly velvet or ridged leaves. Spider mites thrive in warm, dry conditions, making them especially problematic indoors during colder months when heating lower humidity levels.
Recognising Spider Mite Infestations
Spider mites can destroy a plant in days and spread rapidly, so it's important to check regularly and know what to look for. White or faded leaves, constant yellowing of leaves, new deformed growth and tiny spider webbing (which might initially appear as dust) are all signs of an infestation.
I noticed mine on one of my alocasias after I came home from a weekend away. The plant had been looking a little sad, but I assumed it was because I left it too thirsty for too long. So I gave it a big drink, but after a few days, I noticed another two leaves turning yellow and took a closer look, and noticed the milky white colouring and webs. Nooo!
Steps to Treat Infested Plants
Isolate the Plant: Prevent the spread of spider mites by isolating the infested plant and nearby plants.
Rinse the Leaves and Prune: Put the plant into your shower and blast with cold water soapy to rinse leaves, including undersides. Prune and dispose of any seriously affected leaves.
Spray with Mineral Oil: Use our Mineral Oil or another horticultural pest oil to smother the mites.
If you can, put your plant outside (in the shade!). Outside there are plenty of good pests - such as ladybugs - who will come eat the micropests and help your fight!
Can I save my severely infested plants?
Yes! You can save severely infested plants, though it may require significant pruning. For instance, alocasia plants can be pruned down to their stumps and will shoot out new leaves eventually. Sometimes this is the best course of action.
Preventing Spider Mites from Returning
Repeat Treatment: Regularly rinse and spray affected plants until reproduction ceases.
Evaluate Growing Conditions: Maintain cooler temperatures and higher humidity to deter mites.
Try Beneficial Insects: If you have a precious plant, try beneficial mites to target and consume spider mites - check out Bugs for Bugs - they have a great range of friends who can help fight your war!
Conclusion
Managing spider mites on houseplants involves early detection, isolation, and consistent treatment. Methods like cool water rinses, mild soap solutions, and Mineral Oil are effective. Preventive measures include maintaining humidity, avoiding dry conditions, and using beneficial insects.
Happy planting!
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