Symptoms
- check_circleFine, silky webbing on undersides of leaves
- check_circleWebbing across leaf joints and between stems
- check_circleTiny moving dots (the mites themselves) on leaf undersides
- check_circleStippled, dusty appearance to upper leaf surface
- check_circleYellowing, bronzing leaves that eventually drop
Causes
- arrow_rightHot, dry air — classic condition for spider mites
- arrow_rightLow humidity — central heating in winter is a major trigger
- arrow_rightStressed, drought-stressed plants are more vulnerable
- arrow_rightInfestation spreading from nearby plants
How to Diagnose
Hold a piece of white paper under a leaf and tap the leaf. If tiny dots fall onto the paper and move, you have spider mites. The webbing under leaves is the clearest identifier — look in the junctions of leaves and stems.
Treatment
Isolate the plant. Shower it thoroughly — water knocks mites off physically. Spray all surfaces with neem oil solution (1 tsp neem + dish soap + 500ml water) or insecticidal soap. Repeat every 5 days for 4 weeks to break the egg cycle. Increase humidity around the plant.
Prevention
Maintain humidity above 40% — spider mites hate humid conditions. Don't place plants near radiators. Inspect leaf undersides weekly. Quarantine new plants.
Affected Plants
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