Tiny White Spiders in the Potting Soil

Spider mites are harmful to houseplants.

Houseplants are susceptible to a number of annoying pests, one of which is spider mites. Attacking the problem early can bring spider and insect infestations under control.

Identification

Tiny white spiders in potting soil are most likely to be spider mites, a common pest -- along with mealybugs, aphids and scale -- which can reproduce quickly and damage houseplants.

Potential Damage

The leaves of plants infested with spider mites will appear mottled and begin to lose color. The undersides of leaves may look dusty due to light webbing produced by the mites.

Solutions

Buy sterilized potting soil. Wash the leaves of new plants and isolate infected plants to avoid infestation. Spiders are actually not insects, so common commercial insecticides may not work. Spray the plants with insecticidal soap or a solution of dishwashing liquid and water.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Managing Houseplant Pests
• University of Minnesota Extension: Houseplant Insect Control

Resources

• The Garden Helper: How to Control the Insects, Bugs and Garden Pests that can Damage your Plants