Can spider mites survive on humans?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Spider mites are harmless to humans. These pests will only consume sap from plants. They may hang on to skin or clothing for a short time, but once away from plant material, they will die within hours. Wash any affected skin with soapy water and wash any gardening clothing to prevent accidentally spreading them to plants.
Plant Dependency
- Mouthparts adapted for piercing plant cells, not human skin
- Digestive enzymes only break down plant sap, not animal proteins
- No nutritional value from human blood or skin cells
Human Interaction
- Surface contact: Mites may hitchhike on skin for 2-4 hours
- No breeding: Cannot reproduce without host plants
- Self-limiting: Die from dehydration within 12 hours
Prevention Protocols
- Post-gardening shower: Removes 98% of hitchhiking mites
- Clothing wash: Use hot water (130°F/54°C) for fabrics
- Tool sanitization: Wipe pruners with 70% alcohol
Mites will often reach humans by way of infested plants. So, when you are pruning a rosebush or trimming a tomato plant, take a moment to check your sleeves and gloves. I recommend lightly shaking your clothing outside before you enter your home. I remember when I was doing some work in a greenhouse, I found mites on my hat, which I washed because my indoor plants would not have survived the infestation.
Why mites stay away from humans: Mites have legs that do not have a gripping pad for adhering to a smooth surface such as skin. Plant leaves provide a texture that allows them apparently to anchor themselves. Additionally, human oil on skin provides a repulsive quality. Mites cannot embed mouthparts as ticks do. Without vegetation for food, they will die of starvation in a short time.
To maintain peace of mind, check plants closely for damage or a pest presence before working with them. If you have just acquired a new plant, separate it from healthy plants for 14 days. In the meantime, consider placing some sticky traps around workstations or desks to catch any wayward mites and break the cycle. Our major efforts should focus on protecting plants, not people. In the end, mites won't hang around where they can't feed.
Read the full article: Spider Mite Control: Proven Strategies for Healthy Plants
