Different types of spider mites attack various plants both indoors and out.
There are several ways you’re free to learn how to get rid of spider mites.
Here’s what to look for.
The Spruce / Brianna Gilmartin
Leaves Damaged by Spider Mites
Spider mites feed by sucking out plant juice from the leaves.
Some spider mites inject toxins into the leaves that discolor and distort them.
They come in a wide variety of colors, including red, yellow, green, and brown.
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Some even change colors throughout the year, while others are translucent.
Even though spider mites are incredibly tiny, if you look really closely you might see them.
They’re harder to see when the infestation is light.
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),beans,tomatoes, and a wide range oflandscape treesand shrubs.
Many indoor houseplants can be affected by spider mites, especially those with thin, tender leaves.
The leaves of the plant may grow yellow and dry-looking.
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Fortunately, there are several methods for getting rid of spider mites.
Cover the stems, flowers, and foliage thoroughly.
(rubbing alcohol kills spider mites by dehydrating them).
Treatment will need to be repeated frequently until the mite problem is under control.
Horticultural oils are less likely than chemical pesticides to kill beneficial insects.
Encourage Predators
A variety of predatory insects and mites are known to feed on spider mites.
), ladybugs, lacewings (Chrysopaspp.
), predatory thrips (Scolothripsspp.
), and spined soldier bugs.
It should kill any spider mite eggs on contact.
Pyrethroid pesticides are most often recommended against spruce spider mites.
These should be reserved for very serious infestations of important plants, and only where other methods have failed.
Always read and follow label directions carefully.
What Causes Spider Mites?
Similarly, purchased plants should be carefully checked before you bring them home from the garden center.
Spider mites are very tiny pests that are easily washed away.
Nor do they have any incentive to do so.
These are not blood-feeding pests, but creatures that feed entirely on plant juices.
In addition, spider mites may quickly develop a tolerance for chemical pesticides.
The answer depends on how much damage has been done to the plant.
To get rid of spider mites permanently, you’ll have to repeat treatments on a weekly basis.
Spider Mites.University of California, Agriculture & Natural Resources.
Integrated Pest Management (I.P.M.)
For Spider Mites.Home & Garden Information Center, Clemson Cooperative Extension.
Neem Oil General Fact Sheet.
National Pesticide Information Center.
Pyrethrins General Fact Sheet.
National Pesticide Information Center.
