What natural methods instantly kill spider mites?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Natural remedies quickly kill spider mites when applied properly. Dilute alcohol solutions kill the mites on contact, whereas high-pressure water physically dislodges them. Essential oils, such as rosemary, are effective in quickly killing germs. I saved my mint, which was full of spider mites, when the webs appeared overnight, by following these methods.
Alcohol Spray Formula
- Mix 70% isopropyl alcohol with equal parts water
- Test on single leaf before full application
- Spray directly onto mites using fine mist bottle
- Repeat spot treatments every 48 hours as needed
Essential Oil Blends
- Combine rosemary and peppermint oils 1:1 ratio
- Dilute 30 drops per cup of water with emulsifier
- Apply only at dusk to prevent phototoxicity
- Store mixtures in amber bottles away from light
Properly execute high-pressure water treatments. Hose nozzles must be set to 40 PSI (2.8 bar), and the leaf undersides must be blasted at various angles. Mornings are chosen as the time for this treatment because plants tend to dry quickly. I use adjustable spray-wands in inaccessible areas. This mechanically removes mites without the use of chemicals.
Properly prepare solutions of alcohol. Dilute 70% isopropyl alcohol with an equal volume of water in a spray atomizer. Before using it on delicate foliage such as fernleaf, please test a small amount on a similar plant to see what effect it will have. For a woody succulent such as citrus, use an undiluted solution in the form of swabs. It evaporates rapidly, leaving no residue, unlike oils.
Essential oils are applied strategically and effectively. Combine rosemary and peppermint oils with a Castile soap-based emulsifier for a diluted spray to be used when temperatures remain below 80°F (27°C), allowing for smaller droplets to avoid leaf burn. Use on rose bushes that responded best to evening applications repeated every third day.
Use a combination of methods for greater effect. Used in order, water blasting is followed by alcohol on the remaining mites, and finished with a barrier of the essential oil. This series eliminated my worst infestation in 48 hours. Use gloves and masks for safety in applying treatments.
Read the full article: Ultimate Spider Mite Control Guide
