Pests Diagnostic
Moderate Severity LevelSpider Mites (Tetranychidae)
Microscopic sap-sucking arachnids that form delicate silk webbing under leaves and drain cellular fluid from leaves.
Key Visual Symptoms
- Fine silky webbing in leaf axils and undersides
- Tiny yellow or bronze speckling (stippling) on upper leaf surface
- Dull, dusty leaf appearance followed by leaf drop
Underlying Causes
- Dry, low-humidity indoor environments (below 40% RH)
- Infested new plants brought indoors without quarantine
- Warm summer heat spells
Emergency Treatment Protocol
1Isolate infested plant immediately
2Shower leaves thoroughly with lukewarm water spray to physically dislodge mites
3Apply cold-pressed Neem Oil or Insecticidal Soap every 5-7 days for 3 cycles
4Wipe down all leaf undersides with isopropyl alcohol cotton pads
Long-Term Prevention Guidelines
- Increase room humidity using a humidifier or pebble tray
- Mist leaves regularly or wipe clean of dust
- Quarantine new houseplants for 14 days before introducing to collection