Spider Mites on Orchids

Orchids often attract pests such as spider mites and mealy bugs.

Spider mites are pests that commonly live on plants and flowers. These small pests cause injury to plants by bruising the plant cells with their mouths and consuming the sap. Orchids are a type of flower that often attracts pests such as the spider mite.

Identification

The spider mite is a small mite that appears red, yellow, green and brown, depending on which species it is. The two-spotted spider mite is attracted to vegetables and fruits. This type of spider mite also likes flowers such as the orchid.

Effects

Spider mites can have adverse effects on plants. Symptoms of spider mite infestation may include discoloration or bronzing of the leaves of the orchid, flecking, leaf loss and eventual death.

Prevention/Solution

Watering your orchids during dry conditions can help discourage spider mite infestation. According to Colorado State University, hosing plants and flowers down with a forceful stream of water removes and kills spider mites. There are only a few pesticides that eliminate spider mites successfully, as many pesticides only exacerbate the problem. Using a pesticide designed specifically for spider mite control is recommended.

References

• University of Colorado: Spider Mites
• University of Kentucky: Spider Mites On Landscape Plants