How to Kill Spider Mites on Bonsai

Use water as a first step to the removal and eradication of spider mites on a bonsai.

Spider mites are all too familiar to many homeowners who spend time in the landscape or garden. Part of the arachnid family, several varieties of spider mites often infest evergreen and other vegetation. Bonsai growers recognize the potential for damage from spider mites that are left untreated. Routine maintenance helps to reduce the potential for spider mites. However, a method other than the use of dangerous pesticides is available to rid a bonsai of spider mites.

Things You'll Need

• Magnifying glass
• Spray bottle

Instructions

1. Identify spider mites on a bonsai plant. Look for small spiderlike creatures that are barely visible to the naked eye. Use a magnifying glass to help locate mites on and under leaves and branches. Look for small webs spun by the spider mites.

2. Fill a spray bottle with water and adjust the spray nozzle to the tightest stream pattern possible.

3. Spray the bonsai tree with streams of water. Direct the water onto visible spider mites and any webs that are visible. Spray the top and bottom of leaves and branches to remove as many of the mites as possible.

4. Monitor the bonsai for two to three days. Repeat the water treatment to remove any remaining spider mites that you find.

References

• Evergreen Garden Works; Spider Mites; Brent Walston
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources; Spider Mites; December 2000