Signs and symptoms of spider mites on indoor plants
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Spider mites are very tiny plant pests that are related to spiders. They feed only on plants.
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The colors may be reddish or light green with two dark spots.
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They are about the size of a period on a page.
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Spider mites can be a problem all year indoors and have a very broad host range.
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Spider mites suck the chlorophyll from leaves which results in fine white spots or stipples on the leaves.
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Heavy feeding causes yellowing, browning, and eventual death of leaves.
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Some spider mite species produce webbing that covers the leaves and stems when populations are high.
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The two-spotted spider mite feeds mainly on the undersides of the leaves.
Example of spider mite feeding called stippling
Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
Management strategies
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If mites become a problem, periodically wash down houseplants with a strong spray of water and be sure to get good coverage of the lower leaf surfaces.
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When control is needed, use insecticidal soap for houseplants or a houseplant insecticide that is labeled for spider mites and houseplants. Read and follow label directions.
