Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from leaves. They are hard to see until the damage builds up, which is rude but on brand for plant pests.
Quick Answer
To get rid of spider mites, isolate the plant, rinse leaves thoroughly, wipe undersides, prune heavily infested growth, and repeat treatment with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil every few days.
Signs of Spider Mites
Look for fine webbing, tiny moving dots, speckled leaves, faded color, curling, and dry leaf edges. Mites often hide on leaf undersides.
First Steps
Isolate the plant. Rinse it in the sink or shower. Focus on undersides of leaves and stem joints. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth.
Treatment
Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil according to the label. Repeat every three to seven days because eggs can hatch after the first treatment.
Prevention
Spider mites love dry, dusty conditions. Keep leaves clean, inspect new plants, and increase humidity for plants that tolerate it.
Bottom Line
Spider mite control is repetition. One spray is optimism. Several careful treatments are a plan.