Spider mites are one of the more common houseplant pests. Getting rid of spider mites is not always easy, but it can be done. Show Spider Mite DetectionBeing able to effectively kill spider mites starts with good spider mite detection. Good spider mite detection starts with looking at the plant. The three most common signs of spider mites are:
If you believe that your plant is affected by spider mites, immediately isolate the plant and take steps to kill the spider mites. Getting Rid of Spider MitesGetting rid of spider mites is difficult but, with persistence, it can be done. You can do this with either natural controls or chemical controls. Spider mite – natural controlGetting rid of spider mites though natural controls in normally done in one of two ways. The first way is to isolate the plant and then spray the leaves and stems of then plant with pressure water, like from a hose or faucet. Spray down as much of the plant as possible. This spider mite natural control will need to be repeated several times to be effective. The second natural control is to introduce natural predators to the infected plant. Ladybugs and other parasitic mites that kill spider mites can be purchased from reputable nurseries. Make sure that the insects you purchase to kill spider mites are appropriate for the plant and season you will be using. Spider mite – chemical controlGetting rid of spider mites using chemical controls also has two options. First you can use neem oil or insecticidal oil. These substances will cling to them to kill spider mites rather effectively. Second you can use a miticide, which will be effective for getting rid of spider mites. If you are using chemical controls, remember that they will kill all insects, not just the spider mites. Also, any chemicals need to touch the spider mites to kill spider mites. You will need to make sure that the plant is thoroughly covered in the chemicals in order to be effective. Tiny, sap-sucking arachnids known as spider mites can be a problem any time of year, not only in your garden but plaguing houseplants and greenhouse plants, too. With females able to lay as many as 300 eggs every few weeks, spider mite populations can explode in a matter of days. Telltale signs that you’ve been infested include:
Unfortunately, employing chemicals to control them can be a two-pronged problem: First, mites can develop resistance, and second, pesticides often kill such beneficial insects as ladybugs that like to feast on mites. Instead, go with the simple techniques and non-toxic remedies outlined here for in this guide on how to get rid of spider mites.
 Photo: istockphoto.com Step 1Your plants are in trouble: Leaves may be blotchy, be-webbed, streaked with silver or gold, or turning brown and falling off. But are spider mites to blame? These pests are less than a millimeter long, so grab a magnifying glass and inspect the underside of leaves, where they congregate. If you can’t see the culprits, place a piece of white paper under foliage and shake the leaves, then examine what falls on the sheet. Slow-moving, eight-legged pests—red, yellow, brown, or green in color—mean you’ve got spider mites. Two-spotted spider mites, so called for the duo of dots on their backs, are deemed “particularly troublesome” by experts, but diligent treatment can curb their invasion. Step 2Simply wash the buggers away! Pressure-sprayed water is a surprisingly effective against spider mites, whether using a power spray from your hose outside or just a strong stream from a spray bottle on houseplants. Blast plants from below to hit the back of leaves. Then, take a clean, water-dampened sponge to wipe the backs of leaves, rinsing the sponge after each wipe by dipping it in a bucket of water. Pest problems? Find licensed pest control experts in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project. What kills spider mites instantly?Use Rubbing Alcohol
Kill spider mites by combining a mixture of 1 cup of rubbing alcohol and 4 cups of water, then spray the solution on your plants. Cover the stems, flowers, and foliage thoroughly. Rubbing alcohol kills spider mites by dehydrating them.
Can you completely get rid of spider mites?Using 70% isopropyl alcohol is an effective way to get rid of spider mites. Simply spray your plant down with the alcohol and the spider mites will die off. This method should be repeated every other day until you no longer see any signs of spider mites.
What is a natural repellent for spider mites?Neem oil: A natural extract of the neem tree, neem oil is a general pest repellent that will smother spider mites upon application. This is a longer-lasting solution, and is often used after applying an insecticidal soap. Use as directed and keep away from pets and children.
Why do spider mites keep coming back?As you might have guessed, spider mite infestations often pop up in times of drought. In indoor growing areas, spider mites are more likely to become a problem on underwatered plants. Over-applying nutrients can also make your plants more susceptible to spider mites.
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How to get rid of spider mites outdoors
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