Spider Mites
Tiny red, brown, or yellow mites feed on the undersides of leaves, causing fine yellow or white speckles (stippling). As the infestation worsens, leaves turn yellow, become dry and brittle, and may drop prematurely. Fine silky webbing is often visible between leaves and stems during heavy infestations.
Tiny red, brown, or yellow mites feed on the undersides of leaves, causing fine yellow or white speckles (stippling). As the infestation worsens, leaves turn yellow, become dry and brittle, and may drop prematurely. Fine silky webbing is often visible between leaves and stems during heavy infestations.
Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions with low humidity. Water-stressed plants and dusty environments encourage infestations. They reproduce rapidly during warm weather and can spread quickly between nearby plants.
Spray the undersides of leaves with a strong stream of water to remove mites and webbing. Increase humidity around the plants when appropriate and remove heavily infested leaves. Apply insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil according to the product label, ensuring thorough coverage of the undersides of leaves. Repeat treatments every 5–7 days if necessary.
Inspect plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep plants well watered, reduce dust around growing areas, and maintain good plant health. Encourage beneficial predatory mites and avoid unnecessary use of broad-spectrum insecticides that may kill natural predators.