How can I prevent spider mite infestations indoors?

To control the prevention of spider mites indoors, the first step is environmental control. Spider mites prefer to infest in dry air. Therefore, keeping humidity over 60% can be achieved with either a humidifier or pebble trays. If you group plants, you will trap more humidity and develop a humid microclimate. Spider mites do not like humidity. Avoid stressing your plants with accidents of overcrowding, and spider mites and pests will arrive. It is worth knowing how far apart you space your pots.

Each week, take a close look at your plants with 10x magnification examining mainly the undersides of leaves and stem joints. Yellow sticky traps are an effective way to capture roaming mites early. I used this method and caught an infestation on my fiddle leaf fig. Since I caught it so early, it took about half the time to treat.

Immediately quarantine infested plants. Move the plants to another room. Spray all surfaces with neem oil after dark. Wipe leaves with diluted castile soap. Repeat treatment every five days for three weeks. Mite eggs shed in cycles. Consistency will eliminate their reproduction.

Skip the chemical sprays inside. They can linger in the air circulation system. Instead, use food-grade diatomaceous earth around the edges of your pots. While it is a powder, it absorbs moisture from mites, dehydrating them in the process, without any toxins. You can reapply after watering each time you think about it. Mix that with sprinkle cinnamon on your soil, which will keep the soil antifungal as well.

Read the full article: Spider Mite Control: Proven Strategies for Healthy Plants