How do I Get Rid of Mites on Chili Plants?

Mites enjoy dry conditions.

Chili peppers are related to tomatoes and potatoes, so they share some of the same pest problems. In conditions where relative humidity is low, chili pepper plants can become susceptible to mites, which suck the nutrients from the plants' leaves. These tiny pests are sometimes difficult to remove, but there are methods that can effectively reduce their threat. When humidity is low, water your pepper plants often and take care to wet the entire plant. Mites are tiny, but if you notice your chili plant's leaves becoming pale, look closely to see if mites are present. You may also see tiny webs on the backs of leaves.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tsp. vegetable-based soap
• Spray bottle
• Garden hose
• Predatory ladybugs

Instructions

Insecticidal Soap Wash

1. Mix 1 tsp. vegetable-based soap, such as castile soap, into 1 gallon of water.

2. Add as much of the soap mixture to a spray bottle as possible.

3. Spray the affected chili plants with the insecticidal soap mixture. Be sure to spray all parts of the plant, including the undersides of the leaves and chili peppers.

4. Allow the soap to sit on the plant for five minutes.

5. Rinse the chili plants well with clean water from a garden hose.

6. Repeat the insecticidal soap wash as often as necessary. Depending on the amount of mites present, you may need to wash your chili plants several times per week.

Predatory Insects

1. Purchase ladybugs from a home and garden store. Ladybugs in particular are fond of mites and will hunt them without harming your chili plants.

2. Release the ladybugs near your chili plants. This method works best within a greenhouse; however, you can release ladybugs in your garden as well.

3. Allow the ladybugs to control the mite population. Check on them every few days to ensure that the mites are now leaving your chili plants alone. Ladybugs do not need any additional care, and they will leave when there are no further food sources to sustain them.

Tips & Warnings

• Detergents can damage plants, so be sure to use pure soap and to rinse the plants thoroughly.

• If you do not have vegetable-based soap, a strong stream of water washing the plant for several minutes can remove the mites. You will have to wash the plant longer with plain water than with insecticidal soap.

• Keep all insecticidal products out of the reach of children and pets.

References

• Clark County, Washington: Natural Yard and Garden
• Ready to Grow: Chili Cultivation Tips