Spider Mites on Fern (Boston)
How to identify and get rid of spider mites on Fern (Boston). Size: 0.5mm.
Identifying spider mites on Fern (Boston)
Fine stippling and a dull, dusty appearance on fronds, with delicate webbing between leaflets in heavier infestations, most common when humidity drops.
Life cycle
Complete life cycle in 1–2 weeks in hot, dry conditions. Can produce 13+ generations per year.
Damage to Fern (Boston)
Feeding causes stippled, dulled fronds and can lead to significant leaflet drop, worsened by the fact that Boston Ferns are already stressed by the low humidity that favours mites in the first place.
How to treat spider mites on Fern (Boston)
Raise humidity immediately with a humidifier or pebble tray, spray the fronds forcefully with water to dislodge mites, and follow with a miticide or neem oil if the infestation persists.
Preventing spider mites on Fern (Boston)
Maintain 50%+ humidity consistently, since keeping the fern's own preferred conditions is also the best defence against spider mites.