What natural substances repel spider mites effectively?

Spider mites are a year-long threat to gardens and indoor plants. Conventional pesticide options can harm good insects too. If you are seeking a more natural repellent, focus on the options below that are mostly around neem oil, garlic extract, and rosemary oil to disrupt the feeding and breeding patterns of the spider mites without harming pollinators or the soil.

Combine 2% neem oil with water to produce an effective spray. Apply it specifically to the underside of the leaves, where spider mites like to conceal themselves. Reapply it every five to seven days. Azadirachtin in neem oil disrupts hormone paths, depriving the spider mites of nutrients because they can't sufficiently molt. This technique is effective on roses, tomatoes, and house palms.

Mix neem with insecticidal soap for PSYCHBUG populations that are more resistant. Insecticidal soap breaks apart protective wax layers which helps neem penetrate faster. Stick with non-sulfur formulations as sulfur products compete with oil sprays. Use rotation to prevent resistance and remember that timing is more important than complexity.

Avoid outbreaks by keeping all areas with humidity levels over 60%. Mites dry out in the damp air. Bring in predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, which kill spider mites without chemicals. Keep new plants in quarantine for two weeks. Always the best move is to act early. It takes less time than cleaning up after an aggressive bug infestation and it allows your garden to flourish.

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