spider mites on Rhapis Excelsa
Quick answer
If your Rhapis Excelsa has spider mites, the most likely cause is: Red spider mite attacks Rhapis excelsa when the indoor air is warm and dry, especially through the cooler months indoors; the mites colonise the palmate fronds of this otherwise tolerant Chinese fan palm and thrive where humidity is low and circulation is poor.
Start here:
- 1. Spray the entire lady palm thoroughly with a systemic insecticide labelled for red spider mite, covering both sides of the fan-shaped leaflets and the reed-like stems.
- 2. Improve humidity around the plant by misting the palmate fronds regularly and standing the pot on a tray of pebbles kept moist, which makes conditions less hospitable to the mites.
Why Rhapis Excelsa gets spider mites
rhapis excelsa
Red spider mite attacks Rhapis excelsa when the indoor air is warm and dry, especially through the cooler months indoors; the mites colonise the palmate fronds of this otherwise tolerant Chinese fan palm and thrive where humidity is low and circulation is poor.
How to reverse spider mites on Rhapis Excelsa
- 1
Spray the entire lady palm thoroughly with a systemic insecticide labelled for red spider mite, covering both sides of the fan-shaped leaflets and the reed-like stems.
- 2
Improve humidity around the plant by misting the palmate fronds regularly and standing the pot on a tray of pebbles kept moist, which makes conditions less hospitable to the mites.
Keep spider mites off this Rhapis Excelsa
Keep the compost evenly moist, mist the palmate fronds regularly, avoid hot dry air and drafts, and maintain good air circulation so spider mites never get a foothold on the lady palm.