These are spider mites, right? (programming.dev)

submitted 2 weeks ago by python@programming.dev to c/houseplants@mander.xyz

10 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I found them on one vine of the Ivy plant that I bought from Ikea about a month ago. It was kept about 2m away from my other plants, so I'm hoping that the little guys haven't had the chance to hop over.

I've also liberally cut off the visibly affected branch and sprayed off the Ivy in the shower, followed by a generous misting with soapy water. The plant will stay quarantined in my kitchen for the next few weeks, hope it recovers :<

My other plants seem fine so far, at least I couldn't find any critters on their leaves when I checked tonight.

top 10 comments

sorted by: hot top controversial new old

[-] littletoolshed@lemmy.world 11 points 2 weeks ago

Looks like Aphids to me

[-] python@programming.dev 4 points 2 weeks ago

oh, I think you're right! The reference pictures I looked at only showed green Aphids, but I guess they come in brown as well :o Thanks for the tip!

[-] plantsmakemehappy@lemmy.world 9 points 2 weeks ago

I agree with the other person that said aphids. Spider mites are itty bitty and you are more likely to notice them because of the webbing vs the actual bugs.

[-] Guenther_Amanita@slrpnk.net 5 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Those look like aphids to me. They're having a feast right now.

If there's one single plant affected, all others will be too soon.

Spray and drench everything in neem oil or pyrethrum, including the soil.

And maybe consider taking a look at LECA and !hydroponics@slrpnk.net. Pest management is way easier in hydro than in soil.

[-] python@programming.dev 1 points 2 weeks ago

Yup, thanks for the tip! I'll have to look up whether neem oil and pyrethrum are safe for reptiles, because my snake does roam the plant shelves sometimes 🥹

Most of my plants already are in Leca, I'll make sure to flush them all properly in case any bugs have made it to them.

[-] Idontevenknowanymore@mander.xyz 1 points 1 week ago

Honestly you're better off dumping the ivy. They're not fantastic houseplants as they are very prone to insect infestation and seem to attract spider mites, particularly in winter.

[-] Fiivemacs@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 weeks ago

Could be spider mites, I didn't notice any webbing that is typically present. Regardless, Ikea has terrible plans imo..always full of bugs.

You might also want to do a full soil change because the eggs could be hiding in the soil and the issue will resurface again and again

[-] skooma_king@lemm.ee 2 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Sprinkle some diatomaceous earth on the surface soil, and if they do emerge they’ll be ripped to shreds.

[-] Fiivemacs@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 weeks ago

To shreds you say..

[-] python@programming.dev 1 points 2 weeks ago

Yup, I was planning on getting that plant into Leca anyways, might as well do it now haha

this post was submitted on 06 Dec 2024

16 points (100.0% liked)

Houseplants

4657 readers

39 users here now

Welcome to /c/houseplants @ Mander.xyz!

In between life, we garden.

About

We're a warm and informative space for plant enthusiasts to connect, learn, and flourish together. Dive into discussions on care, propagation, and styling, while embracing eco-friendly practices. Join us in nurturing growth and finding serenity through the extraordinary world of houseplants.

Need an ID on your green friends? Check out: !plantid@mander.xyz

Get involved in Citizen Science: Add your photo here to help build a database of plants across the entire planet. This database is used by non-profits, academia, and the sciences to promote biodiversity, learning and rewilding.

Rules