How to Get Rid of Red Spider Mites From Your Houseplants

Because fall is here, you need to know that red spider mites just got comfortable on your plants. Thus, it is time to check for these small insects on your houseplants. It’s insane how many you will find mostly on the undersides of plant leaves. The red spider mites are incredibly dangerous for your houseplants because they are the main cause for the falling of the leaves.

Now, I am not one for chemical solutions. Instead, I would like to keep my plants in their optimal health. Thus, keep reading and see how to get rid of red spider mites using safe and natural methods.

1. Now, let’s identify the plants the red spider mites are attracted to.

Most plants the mites are attracted to are ornamental flowers, shrubs, and houseplants. Thus, you need to check them to see if they are infected.

2. Signs of red spider mites infestation

You also must know how to identify the infestation on your plant. From the sap of the plant, you can notice if there is any damage. Other noticeable signs of red spider mites are:

– white or yellow spots on the leaves;
– tiny red spots on the leaves that move. Yes, you got them! These are the red spider mites;
– a small webbing appearing on the underside of the leaves;
– curled up leaves.

Also, if you can’t see them easily, try to shake gently the plant over a white paper. By doing so, you will see how the red spider mites will fall off of it.

Another sign is your house conditions. If it is too warm, or the air is dry and you have dusty places, then the red spider mites are there.

3. Isolation

If so far you have recognized all the sign, you need to isolate the plant immediately.

Before starting any treatment or method, your infested plant needs to be moved away from healthy plants. That way, you won’t spread the infestation and you won’t harm the other plants.

4. Start pruning the plant

At this point, you can start pruning the plant. You can see how removing infected leaves, stems or other parts could be the best course of action. Thus, you need to make sure that any sing of the webbing is gone.

5. Soap spray solution

This mixture is a natural method to eliminate any red spider mite. All you have to do is combine 2 tablespoons of gentle soap (the best one is baby shampoo), 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, and a gallon of water.

Now, begin the thoroughly spraying of the plant. Of course, you should be careful to apply the solutions mostly on damaged areas. This method should be repeated every four to seven days. Then, you will see how the red spider mites are disappearing.

6. Use oil solutios

This is another natural solution you can resort to. Thus, there are many essential oils which, combined with a half a liter lukewarm water, will get rid of the pests instantly. Some oils you can use are neem oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil, cinnamon oil, rosemary oil or thyme oil.

As a conclusion, I think proceeding with caution and using only safe solutions and methods, your plants will get the treatment they deserve. Tell me how everything worked out in the comment section below.

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