With spider mites on your fiddle leaf fig, you want to catch them early before the infestation spreads and takes a serious toll on your plant.
Spider mites aren’t actually spiders, but they are a type of arachnid similar to ticks. They suck the juices out of the leaves, which can cause discoloration and shriveling. They like to go after the new, tender leaves first. Many fiddle leaf fig owners mistake a spider mite infestation for edema, so make sure to look closely to see if the dots are moving! Not good!
Spider mites are also tiny. They often look like tiny brown, black, or red dots that could just be edema or a slight over-watering problem, until, upon closer inspection, you notice the dots are moving. Your plant can accumulate a ton of these pests before showing damage, but by then the problem is much harder to get rid of.
They travel by air, using their webbing to catch breezes to other plants, so it’s important to keep infected plants away from your other houseplants. All it takes is a short breeze from an open door or fan for spider mites to spread from one plant to another.
Quarantine your affected plant to prevent spider mites from spreading to other plants. Closely inspect any new houseplants before letting them near your current houseplants (especially your fiddle!).
If you’re a proud fiddle leaf fig owner you know these plants can be prone to pest problems. One of the most common pests is the dreaded spider mite. But don’t panic – with some diligence and the right treatment methods, you can get rid of spider mites and protect your beloved fiddle leaf fig.
What Are Spider Mites?
Spider mites are tiny pests that can do major damage to houseplants. Despite their name they aren’t actually spiders. Spider mites are more closely related to ticks and other mites. There are many different species, some of which exclusively feed on specific plants.
The two-spotted spider mite is commonly found on houseplants like fiddle leaf figs. These pests are only about 1/50 of an inch (0.4 mm) long – so they’re very tiny! They can range in color from yellowish to green to red or brown.
Spider mites suck sap from plant cells using their needle-like mouthparts. This damages the plant tissue and removes vital fluids the plant needs to thrive. An infestation can quickly spiral out of control, weakening and even killing a plant.
Signs of Infestation on Fiddle Leaf Figs
Catching an infestation early is key to saving your plant. Here are some signs that spider mites may have moved into your fiddle leaf fig:
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Small dots or stippling on leaves. This is caused by the mites feeding on leaf cells.
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Bronzing, yellowing, or browning of leaves. Leaf discoloration occurs as the mites drain nutrients.
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Drooping leaves or slowed growth. Spider mite damage impairs the plant’s ability to photosynthesize.
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Webbing on plant parts. Spider mites spin fine strands of webbing on leaves and stems.
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Frass deposits. These are tiny black specks (mite poop!) that collect on leaves or below the plant.
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Moving specks on leaves and stems. Look closely to see if those dots are crawling!
Check both sides of leaves and look closely where leaves connect to stems. Spider mites love to hide in these protected areas. A magnifying glass helps spot the tiny pests. Act quickly if you find spider mites on your fiddle leaf fig.
Effective Spider Mite Treatments
When spider mites are detected, it’s important to treat the infestation right away. Here are some effective organic and natural methods to get rid of spider mites on fiddle leaf figs:
Hose Down the Plant
A forceful stream of water can help dislodge and wash away spider mites from your plant. Take your fiddle leaf fig to the sink or shower and gently spray both sides of leaves, stems, and even the top of the soil. Repeat every few days until mites are gone.
Apply Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soap sprays are designed to target soft-bodied insects like mites. The soap dehydrates and kills the pests. Make sure to coat all leaf surfaces. Apply every 5-7 days for 2-3 weeks. Insecticidal soap won’t harm beneficial insects.
Use Neem Oil
Extracted from the neem tree, this natural oil coats insects and interferes with their feeding and reproduction. Dab neem oil onto the fiddle leaf fig using a cotton swab to avoid harming the leaves. Reapply weekly for a few weeks. Always follow label directions.
Employ Predatory Mites
Beneficial predatory mites can be ordered online and released onto plants to consume troublesome spider mites. The predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis is a great natural control for two-spotted spider mites. Stop using pesticides if introducing predatory mites.
Try Horticultural Oil
These mineral-based oils smother insects and eggs by coating them in oil. Two applications 7-10 days apart can help eliminate an infestation. Thoroughly coat all plant parts while avoiding direct sun. Always do a small test area first.
Remove Heavily Infested Parts
Prune off badly infested leaves and stems that likely can’t be saved. Bag and dispose of this plant debris right away so mites don’t spread. Sterilize pruning tools after each cut with alcohol. Remove just the most damaged areas to limit stress to the plant.
Prevent Spider Mites in the Future
Once you’ve eliminated spider mites, take these steps to help prevent future infestations:
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Keep plants away from direct sun, which spider mites prefer.
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Avoid drought stress by watering when the soil slightly dries out. Stressed plants attract mites.
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Remove any weeds around potted plants. Weeds harbor spider mites.
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Separate or quarantine new plants for a few weeks before placing with other plants.
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Inspect plants regularly to catch any mites early before they multiply.
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Wipe dust and debris from leaves to eliminate spider mite hiding spots.
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Introduce beneficial predatory mites to your plants preventively.
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Try placing sticky traps around plants to catch wandering spider mites.
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Use a humidifier and mist plants to make the environment less hospitable to mites.
With diligence and attention, you can keep destructive spider mites off your gorgeous fiddle leaf fig! Don’t let those pesky arachnid relatives ruin the enjoyment of growing this popular houseplant. Stay vigilant and take action at the first sign of infestation. Your proactive efforts will keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy, happy, and mite-free!
Small, Clustered Dots on the Leaves
One of the most tell-tale signs of spider mites are small, dark red or brown dots on the leaves. These are the insects themselves, so look closely with magnifying glass to see if the dots are moving.
This might also indicate where the spider mites have started to snack on your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves!
Signs of Spider Mites on Your Fiddle Leaf Fig:
Spider mites on your fiddle leaf fig are spiders, after all, and they spin webs on your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves, stems, and trunks. They usually don’t leave webbing in the soil, however.
Examine your tree closely for soft, cottony webbing. Spider mites especially like the undersides of leaves, so check those leaves, top and bottom!
Treating My FLF For Spider Mites | A quick guide to fighting pests on house plants
FAQ
How do I get rid of spider mites on my fiddle leaf fig?
Mites are easily controlled with a spritz of water:rubbing alcohol (70%) at a 2:1 (water being the greater volume) or 1:1 mix. Be sure to coat all surfaces with the spritz, being sure to get leaf undersides and axils fully coated. A drop or two of insecticidal soap is also helpful and very safe.
Can plant leaves recover from spider mites?
Plants with mite damage limited to a few leaves will usually recover without special care. But plants stressed by more significant spider mite damage will require extra attention. Make sure your plant gets the appropriate amount of sunlight. Keep soil moisture consistent so the soil is never soggy or too dried out.