Zebra plant, also known as Calathea zebrina, is a stunning houseplant that features unique striped leaves. However, this plant is prone to infestations by spider mites. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to plants if not controlled early enough. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of spider mites in zebra plant.
Before you can get rid of spider mites in zebra plant, you need to identify them. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap by piercing the leaves with their mouthparts. They are usually found on the underside of leaves, where they spin webs. The webs look like fine threads and can be seen with a magnifying glass.
Spider mites cause damage to zebra plant by sucking the sap from the leaves, which leads to yellowing, browning, and curling of the leaves. If left unchecked, spider mites can cause the death of the entire plant.
There are several natural remedies that you can use to get rid of spider mites in zebra plant. Here are some of them:
Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective against spider mites. To use neem oil, mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1 gallon of water and spray the solution on the affected plants. Make sure to cover both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves.
Soap spray is another effective natural remedy for spider mites in zebra plant. To make soap spray, mix 2 tablespoons of liquid soap with 1 gallon of water and spray the solution on the affected plants. Make sure to cover both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. The soap spray will kill spider mites by suffocating them.
Rubbing alcohol is a potent insecticide that can kill spider mites on contact. To use rubbing alcohol, mix 1 part rubbing alcohol with 1 part water and spray the solution on the affected plants. Make sure to cover both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves.
Ladybugs are natural predators of spider mites. You can buy ladybugs online or from your local garden center and release them in your zebra plant. Ladybugs will eat the spider mites and keep their population under control.
If natural remedies do not work or if the infestation is severe, you may need to use chemical remedies to get rid of spider mites in zebra plant. Here are some chemical remedies that you can use:
Insecticidal soap is a type of soap that is specially formulated to kill insects. To use insecticidal soap, mix it with water according to the instructions on the label and spray the solution on the affected plants.
Miticides are pesticides that are specifically formulated to kill spider mites. They come in different forms, including sprays and concentrates. Follow the instructions on the label when using miticides.
Preventing spider mites in zebra plant is easier than getting rid of them. Here are some tips for preventing spider mites in zebra plant:
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap by piercing the leaves with their mouthparts. They are usually found on the underside of leaves, where they spin webs.
Spider mites cause damage to zebra plant by sucking the sap from the leaves, which leads to yellowing, browning, and curling of the leaves. If left unchecked, spider mites can cause the death of the entire plant.
No, spider mites do not harm humans.
Yes, you can use dish soap to make a soap spray that can kill spider mites in zebra plant. Mix 2 tablespoons of liquid soap with 1 gallon of water and spray the solution on the affected plants. Make sure to cover both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves.
To prevent spider mites in zebra plant, keep the humidity levels high, avoid placing your zebra plant in direct sunlight, and inspect your zebra plant regularly for signs of spider mite infestation.