Spider Mites on rubber plant
What's Happening
Fine webbing on leaf undersides, stippled yellowing, and premature leaf drop indicate spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) infestation. These arachnid pests thrive in hot, dry indoor conditions common in heated homes during winter. Populations explode exponentially when humidity drops below 40%, with a single female producing 100+ offspring in her lifetime. Unlike scale, mites are mobile and spread rapidly between plants via webbing that catches air currents.
How to Fix It
- 1
Isolate plant immediately to prevent spread
- 2
Shower entire plant with lukewarm water to dislodge mites and webs
- 3
Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5-7 days for 4-6 weeks targeting leaf undersides
- 4
Increase humidity to 60%+ with humidifier or pebble tray—dry air favors mites
- 5
Use yellow sticky traps to catch flying adults and monitor population
How to Prevent It
Maintain humidity above 50% year-round. Inspect undersides of leaves weekly. Mist surrounding air (not leaves) to increase humidity. Quarantine new plants for minimum 14 days.