Don’t worry, it’s not too late to keep your plants.
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Spider mites may be small, but they can causebig problems for indoor houseplants.
These resilient pests can reproduce quickly and find clever ways to hitchhike into your home.
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Why Do Plants Get Spider Mites?
These microscopic pests can affect plants for several reasons.
Even the best horticulturists have to battle these irritating pests.
In fact, they will look like tiny spots on your plant’s leaves.
Many homemade DIY options have been shown to be effective against these critters.
Here are two of the best DIY methods our experts recommend using to get rid of spider mites.
of water and a few drops of dish soap.
“Ta-da, you’ve just made a potent insect killer,” she says.
“Be sure to never use systemic treatments on edible plants or plants that produce fruit.”
“With just a few applications a year, the problem takes care of itself.”
Chemical Pesticides
Garden centers and plant stores offer a variety of pesticide options.
“Ingredients that are mostly approved and effective against these mites include permethrin or pyrethrin.”
“The most well-known enemy of spider mites is the Phytoseiulus persimilis mites,” Berendsen says.
“These critters feed on spider mite larvae, killing the bugs before they can complete their life cycle.
This can help reduce the population significantly.
you’re free to purchase beneficial insects online or in garden centers in your area.”
How to Prevent Spider Mites
When it comes to pests, prevention is better than treatment.
Implementing the following expert tips can help prevent spider mites from invading your indoor plants.
“We recommend popping your plants in the shower about once a month,” she adds.
“Thoroughly rinse and wash the leaves to remove dust and any potential bugs that are crawling around.”
He adds that a humidifier to the rooms where your houseplants live will discourage mites from getting established.
“Most houseplants prefer high humidity, as many of them come from tropical climates,” she explains.
“Adding humidifiers can also help your plants look and grow healthier and happier.”
“It can help reduce populations before they get out of control.
