How to Get Rid of Spider Mites in Adams Needle Plant

Spider mites are a common pest that can quickly infest and damage Adams needle plants. These tiny arachnids suck sap from the leaves, causing stippling discoloration, and even leaf loss. An uncontrolled infestation can even kill the plant. Thankfully there are several effective methods to get rid of spider mites in Adams needle plants.

Identifying Spider Mites

The first step is learning to identify spider mites. These pests are very small, less than 1 mm in size, and often go unnoticed until the damage is already done.

Signs of an infestation include

• Fine webbing on the undersides of leaves and stems
• Yellow, brown, or white speckling on leaves
• Stunted or distorted new growth
• Premature leaf drop

Use a magnifying glass to look for the mites themselves. They will appear as tiny, slow moving dots on the webs and leaves Their oval bodies are usually greenish-yellow to red

Act quickly at the first signs to control mites before they multiply. Left uncontrolled, the population can rapidly explode.

Non-Chemical Control Methods

For light or moderate infestations, non-chemical methods can effectively remove mites without harming beneficial insects or the environment.

Wash Plants with Water

Use a strong stream of water to wash away mites and webbing. Focus on the undersides of leaves and crevices where mites hide. Be sure to also rinse the topsoil to eliminate any mites on the soil surface.

Repeat every 3-5 days until no more mites are seen. This gentle method physically removes and kills mites without harming the plant.

Apply Horticultural Oils

Lightweight horticultural oils smother mites on contact while being safe for plants. The oil coats and suffocates mites while also inhibiting egg hatching.

Use neem oil or other plant-based oils and coat all leaf surfaces. For optimal effectiveness, apply in the evening and repeat every 5-7 days for 2-3 weeks.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soaps disrupt cell membranes and kill mites on contact. Mix around 2 tsp soap with 1 quart water and thoroughly spray leaves, including the undersides and stems.

For best results, apply every 5-7 days for 2-3 weeks. Insecticidal soap works rapidly and won’t harm beneficial insects.

Release Predatory Mites

Predatory mites feed on spider mites but don’t damage plants. They are a biological control method that can keep pest mite populations in check.

Apply predatory mites early in the infestation before pest mites get out of control. The predators need time to establish themselves and breed.

Chemical Pesticide Options

Turn to chemical miticides for severe infestations unresponsive to non-chemical treatments. Use pesticides as a last resort due to their environmental impact.

Miticide Sprays

Miticide products specifically target spider mites. Active ingredients like abamectin, bifenazate, and hexythiazox are effective on Adams needle plants.

Follow label directions carefully for timing, dosage, and application method. Avoid applying in extreme heat, and test on a small area first.

Systemic Insecticides

Systemics are absorbed and distributed through the plant’s vascular system, killing mites feeding on leaves and stems. Imidacloprid and other neonicotinoids act systemically.

Only use systemics if absolutely needed, as they can impact pollinators. Do not use them on plants producing fruit or flowers for human consumption.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is the best way to avoid spider mite issues:

• Remove dusty or dirty leaves which can harbor mites. Wipe leaves periodically with a damp cloth.

• Keep plants away from dust and debris which can contain mite eggs and allow them to spread.

• Avoid water stress and improper fertilization which make plants more susceptible.

• Increase air circulation to make conditions less favorable for mites.

• Check new plants thoroughly for signs of mites before bringing home. Isolate new plants.

• Keep vegetation trimmed back and remove weeds around the Adams needle.

• Discard badly infested clippings rather than composting.

With diligence and prompt action, Adams needle plants can be freed of destructive spider mites. Implementing organic control methods and prevention habits will help keep these pests from causing lasting harm.