To get rid of spider mites effectively, you can use a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical methods depending on the severity of the infestation:
Mechanical Control
- Spray plants with a strong jet of water to physically remove spider mites and their webs, especially on the undersides of leaves. Repeat regularly to prevent re-infestation
- Remove heavily infested leaves to reduce the population and prevent spread
- Increase humidity around plants since spider mites thrive in dry conditions. Use a humidifier or regularly mist plants
Biological Control
- Introduce natural predators like predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii or Amblyseius californicus), which feed on spider mites and help keep their numbers down. These work best as preventive measures or for light infestations
- Use biological products such as C-No Pests, ADYBAC 1001 (bacteria-based), or ADYKILL for natural control without harmful chemicals
Chemical and Homemade Treatments
- Use insecticidal or miticidal soaps and oils such as neem oil, horticultural oil, or dormant oil. These work by contact and require thorough coverage of all leaf surfaces
- Homemade sprays can be effective, for example:
- Mix 1 cup rubbing alcohol, a few drops of dish soap, and 4 cups water; spray thoroughly on all plant parts to dehydrate and kill mites
* Neem oil mixed with water and dish soap can disrupt mite feeding and reproduction cycles
- Repeat treatments twice a week until mites are eliminated
Additional Tips
- Isolate infested plants to prevent spreading mites to others
- Quarantine treated plants until you are sure the infestation is gone
- Avoid using harsh chemical pesticides unless infestation is severe, as mites can develop resistance and chemicals may harm beneficial insects and pets
By combining these approaches—regular washing, increasing humidity, applying natural predators or biological agents, and using insecticidal soaps or oils—you can effectively control and eliminate spider mites from your plants.
