One of the leading causes of greenhouse, landscaping and houseplant damage is red spider mites. These destructive little creatures will attach themselves to the underside of virtually any plant’s leaves and slowly suck the life from them until there is nothing left. These tiny red spiders are barely visible to the naked eye. Therefore, a low-power magnification lens can be very helpful in spotting these unwelcome guests before they get out of hand.

Spotting Red Spider Mites

Spotting red spider mites in early stages of infestation can be tricky. Popular sites for these mites are around the base of the leaf and near offshoots. Simply lift the bottom of the leaf upwards and look. Another sign of infestation is the presence of egg clusters. These eggs will resemble tiny white specks. Closer inspection with a magnifying glass will show small pearl-like sacs.

Now that you know how to check for them, you probably want to know how to kill red spider mites. Unfortunately, due to a short life cycle and bountiful reproduction cycle, getting the upper hand on these pests can be difficult. Here are a few popular remedies and methods on how to kill red spider mites that might be of some assistance.

Red Spider Mites Control and Extermination Methods

1. Climate control—Red spider mites prefer a warm, dry climate. By increasing humidity and lowering temperatures, you can slow the reproductive cycle of these pests down dramatically. Using misting systems and keeping plants well watered can boost the humidity of the area substantially, while heaters and sunlight can increase the temperature of an area with relative ease.
2. Soap sprays—By mixing mild, unscented dish soap with room temperature water you can create a simple way to knock red spider mites off your plants and suffocate them. Mixtures should be make in ratios of one to two tablespoons per gallon of water. You can spray the plants with a sprayer or manually clean the leaves with a soft rag. If using a sprayer, be sure to get the bottom of the leaves thoroughly as this is the main area of infestation.
3. Predator mites and biological control—This is by far the most effective red spider mites treatment or control for your plants. Numerous websites and garden supply stores offer these in various species depending on your climate. Other insects that are great red spider mite controllers are the Praying Mantis and Ladybugs. When using biological control, be sure to discontinue any pesticide use.

Due to the short reproductive cycle of red spider mites, if you choose to use a spray method, you should monitor your progress daily. Very few insecticide sprays are capable of killing the eggs of red spider mites. In warm, dry climates, daily washing might be required to reduce the infestation to controllable levels. Be careful when using plant washes and insecticides, however, as some can cause damage to the plant itself or even the handler.