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Controlling Spider Mites on Plants

easyGardening15-30 minutes4 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Avoid using historical chemical controls mentioned in old guides as they are no longer considered safe for modern gardens.

Tools Needed

Hose/Sprayer — Capable of producing a hard stream of water
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Materials

Garlic — Plant as a companion to deter pests(As needed)
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Lemon Balm — Companion plant (Melissa officinalis)(As needed)
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Steps

1
Integrate companion plants like garlic or Lemon Balm into the garden area to naturally deter and repel spider mites.
Tip: Lemon Balm's strong essential oils make it exceptionally pest-resistant.
2
Inspect plants for spider mite infestations early in the day.
Tip: Early detection allows for more effective water-based removal.
3
Apply a hard stream of water to the affected plant foliage to physically wash off the mites.
Tip: This forceful spray is an easy method for keeping pests in check.
4
Repeat the water-washing process occasionally as needed, preferably early in the day.
Tip: Watering early ensures aboveground plant parts dry quickly, reducing disease risk.

Pro Tips

  • A forceful spray of clear water is highly effective for removing many mites from plants.
  • Strong scents from specific herbs like Lemon Balm can act as a natural insect repellent.

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Sources

Synthesized from 10 verified sources:

Cornell ExtensionView →
Cornell ExtensionView →
Gutenberg: War Gardens GuideView →
Cornell ExtensionView →
Old Farmer's AlmanacView →
Gutenberg: Manual of GardeningView →
Cornell ExtensionView →
Wind River Greens Plant DatabaseView →
Cornell ExtensionView →
Cornell ExtensionView →