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Pests · Plant health field guide

Spider mites

Mites feed on leaf cells and can multiply quickly in warm conditions.

Isolate nowPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Signs you may notice

  • fine stippling
  • bronzing
  • fine webbing
  • tiny mites

Safe first checks

  1. Use bright light or magnification on leaf undersides and check for moving dots and fine webbing.
  2. Move the plant away from the collection.
  3. Inspect both sides of leaves, stems, crevices, and the pot.
  4. Photograph the signs before cleaning so you can compare changes.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

  • thrips
  • dust
  • low humidity

What to avoid

Do not apply several pesticides at once or treat before confirming that a living pest is present.

Record and follow up

Reinspect the isolated plant and nearby plants every few days. Record living pests, new damage, and treatment response before deciding the problem is resolved.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.