Spider mites are small arachnid pests that suck the juices from plants and can cause them to wilt and die.
This insect often settles on house flowers, especially in dry and warm rooms.
How to deal with spider mites on flowers? Here are some helpful tips.
• Determine the presence of spider mites. The first signs of a plant infestation with spider mites are: light spots on the leaves - traces of punctures; yellowing and falling leaves; cobwebs on the back of leaves or on stems; small black or colored dots - the mites themselves, which can be seen under a magnifying glass or microscope.
• Remove infected plant parts. Cut off and destroy all infected leaves and stems to prevent the spread of the pest to other plants and reduce its population.
• Treat the plant against mites. Choose a spider mite control method that suits your plant and your preferences.
Among the methods you can use:
1. Chemical preparations such as "Aktellik", "Aktara", "Fitoverm" and others. They quickly and effectively destroy ticks, but can be dangerous to the health of people and animals, and also damage some types of plants. Therefore, before using chemicals, be sure to read the instructions and follow safety precautions.
2. Folk remedies, such as decoctions or infusions of garlic, onions, wormwood, dandelion, etc. They are safer and more environmentally friendly, but may be less effective and require repeated treatments. To prepare such remedies, you need to grind the plant material, pour boiling water over it and leave for at least 12 hours. Then strain and dilute with water in a ratio of 1:5 or 1:10, depending on the concentration. Spray the plant with this solution every 3-5 days until the pest disappears.
3. Mechanical methods, such as wiping the leaves and stems with a damp cloth or napkin soaked in soapy water or a weak vinegar solution. This will remove the webbing and kill some of the mites. This method is best used in combination with others.
4. Maintain optimal conditions for the plant. Spider mites love dry and warm air, so to prevent their appearance or re-infestation, you need to provide the plant with sufficient humidity and coolness.
To do this you can:
• Regularly spray the plant with clean water from a spray bottle or place containers of water next to it.
• Place the plant away from heat sources such as radiators, stoves or air conditioners.
• Ventilate the room, but avoid drafts and temperature changes.
• Replant the plant in fresh soil if it is contaminated or infested with mites.
• Use biological control. This is a way to control spider mites using other insects or animals that are their natural enemies.
Among them we can name:
1. Predatory mites Phytoseiulus or Amlysea, which feed on spider mites and do not damage plants. They can be purchased in specialized stores or ordered online.
2. Ladybugs, which also destroy spider mites and other pests. They can be attracted to your balcony or window by planting fragrant flowers such as lavender, mint or basil.
3. Pets such as cats or birds that may catch and eat ticks.
Spider mites in houseplants are a serious problem that can lead to deterioration and even death of plants. But if you are attentive to your green pets and take timely measures to combat the pest, you can preserve the beauty and health of your flowers.
