How to Kill Mites on Pot Plants

Pot plants are a great addition to any home, but they're also susceptible to mite infestations. Mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of plants, leaving them feeling and looking sickly. If your pot plants have been infested with mites, don't worry! There are plenty of ways to get rid of them. Here are some effective ways to kill mites on your pot plants.

1. Neem Oil Spray

Neem oil is a natural pesticide that is effective in killing mites. To make a neem oil spray, mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 quart of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray the mixture onto your pot plants, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the undersides of leaves. You can repeat this once a week for several weeks until the mites are completely gone.

2. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another natural remedy that kills mites on pot plants. To make an insecticidal soap spray, mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1 quart of warm water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray the solution onto your pot plants, making sure to cover all surfaces. You can repeat this once a week until the mites are gone.

3. Predatory Mites

One of the most effective ways to kill mites on pot plants is to introduce predatory mites. Predatory mites are tiny bugs that feed on mites, making them a natural and effective solution. You can purchase predatory mites online or from your local garden store. Once you have them, simply release them onto your pot plants and they will get to work reducing the mite population. You may need to introduce several rounds of predatory mites to completely eradicate the mites.

4. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. The powder is abrasive and when sprinkled onto the leaves of pot plants, it will scratch the mites' outer shell, causing them to dry out and die. To use diatomaceous earth, dust the powder onto your pot plants, making sure to cover all surfaces. Repeat this once a week until the mites are gone.

5. Horticultural Oil

Horticultural oil is a refined petroleum-based product that can be used to control mites on pot plants. To use horticultural oil, mix 5 tablespoons of oil with 1 gallon of water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray the solution onto your pot plants, making sure to cover all surfaces. You can repeat this once a week until the mites are gone.

Conclusion

Mites on pot plants can be a problem, but they're not impossible to eradicate. By using one or more of the above techniques, you can kill mites on your pot plants and keep them healthy and vibrant. Remember, it may take several weeks of consistent treatment to completely eradicate mites, but with patience and persistence, you can get rid of them for good.