In order to effectively control vermin on orchids, the specific type of pest should be known. Effective remedies against lice in the case of an infestation with spider mites only rarely achieve the desired success. You can find out here which characteristics you can use to recognize spider mites. Use our tips for targeted control with ecologically responsible means.

Spider mites can be successfully combated with a spray containing neem

Overview of appearance and symptoms of spider mites

To distinguish spider mites from other pests, please look for the following combination of appearance and symptoms:

  • Body size between 0.1 and 0.8 mm
  • Body color mostly greenish, more rarely orange, reddish or reddish brown
  • Soft-skinned and bristled
  • Adult spider mites with 8 legs, in the larval stage with 6 legs
  • Frequently with extremely fine, white webs
  • Stinging and sucking action causes a silvery sheen on the leaves
  • Brown-black discoloration of the foliage in the advanced stage

Spider mites bite into the leaf veins up to 20 times a minute, causing the tissue cells to collapse within a short time. The destructive activity can be recognized by the countless, light yellow speckles on the leaves. If no countermeasures are taken now, the leaves, shoots and ultimately the entire orchid will die off.

Combat spider mites without chemicals - tips for environmentally friendly means

They're tougher than aphids. Spider mites cannot be dealt with using tried and tested home remedies. In the early stages, there are at least good prospects of freeing the orchid from the plague with the following ecological methods:

  • Fight with sprays containing neem, such as Compo Bio insect-free neem
  • Use predatory mites in the greenhouse as natural predators of spider mites

If the infestation has already brought your orchid to the brink of ruin, disposal should be considered to prevent further spread. If you don't want to give up your arms to the parasites yet, we recommend using an acaricide such as Spider Mite Free Kanemite by Dr. steel. The new preparation promises to protect beneficial insects such as bees and lacewings.

tips

The most powerful form of prevention against spider mites is the highest possible humidity. Since orchids prefer a warm, humid tropical climate anyway, it is sufficient to observe the obligatory general conditions for the ideal location. In addition, keep the pests at bay by regularly spraying the orchid with soft water.

Category:

Indoor plants