Take one creepy crawly word that makes you shudder and add another icky one, and you get spider mites.
You can’t exactly spot them crawling across your patio — these tiny pests are barely visible to the naked eye. But the damage they cause? That’s a different story.
So what do spider mites look like? How do you know if you have them? And what should you do before they take over your favorite shrubs?
Let’s take a close look.
What Are Spider Mites?
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plants by piercing their leaves and sucking out the juices. They’re hard to see without a magnifying glass, but their damage can be devastating.
They tend to live in colonies and gather on the underside of leaves, especially during hot, dry weather.
Ironically, if you’ve used chemical insecticides in the past, you might be more vulnerable to spider mites — pesticides can kill the beneficial bugs that normally keep spider mites in check.
How Do You Get Spider Mites?
Spider mites thrive in dry, dusty conditions and often show up in the heat of summer. Common causes include:
- Hot, dry environments
- Use of broad-spectrum insecticides
- Lack of natural predators (like ladybugs)
- Stress on plants due to drought or poor care
They spread easily from plant to plant and can quickly establish a colony.
Early Signs of Spider Mites
Want to catch spider mites before they cause serious damage? Here’s what to look for:
1. Tiny Speckles on Leaves
Early infestations cause tiny white or yellow spots on leaves, where mites have pierced the surface to feed.
2. Fine Webbing
Look under leaves and along stems for delicate, silky webbing. This is a telltale sign you’ve got a spider mite colony setting up shop.
3. Tiny Moving Dots
If you look closely (or use a magnifying glass), you may see tiny red, brown, or yellow mites moving slowly across the underside of leaves.
Spider Mite Damage Symptoms
As the infestation grows, so does the damage:
- Leaves may curl, yellow, or dry out
- You might notice premature leaf drop
- Plants can appear dusty, dull, or scorched
A large spider mite population can seriously weaken shrubs, trees, and even lawn areas.
How to Get Rid of Spider Mites
Here’s the tricky part: regular insecticides don’t work on spider mites. That’s because they’re not true insects — they’re arachnids, like ticks and scorpions.
Instead, try one of these approaches:
- Use a miticide that’s designed specifically to kill mites
- Look for pesticides that say they also treat mites (read labels carefully)
- Apply horticultural oil, which smothers mites and their eggs
Pro tip: Always follow application guidelines. Using the wrong product or timing it poorly can stress your plants or reduce effectiveness.
How to Prevent Spider Mites
The best way to stop spider mites? Don’t give them the conditions they love.
- Water regularly during dry spells to reduce stress on your plants
- Hose off foliage periodically to remove dust, webs, and mites
- Avoid unnecessary insecticide use
- Inspect plants regularly for signs of mites or webbing
A healthy, well-maintained plant is your best defense.
Professional Spider Mite Control in Idaho Falls & Boise
Spider mite problems can sneak up fast — and once they’re established, they can be tough to control.
That’s why homeowners across Idaho Falls and the Boise area count on Lawn Buddies for reliable spider mite control and complete plant health care services.
Our Plant Health Care Services, including targeted spider mite control, can be added to your Complete Lawn Care Program. That means one easy plan for weed control, fertilization, grub control, and spider mite prevention — without the hassle.
FAQs About Spider Mites
Are spider mites dangerous to people or pets?
No, they’re not harmful to humans or animals — but they can seriously damage your plants.
Can spider mites kill plants?
Yes, severe infestations can cause leaf drop and long-term stress that leads to plant decline or death.
Do spider mites go away in the winter?
They may become dormant in cold weather, but many survive until spring.
What are the best treatments for spider mites?
Miticides or horticultural oils are most effective. Always follow label instructions.
Ready to Stop Spider Mites in Their Tracks?
Tired of guessing what’s eating your plants? Let Lawn Buddies help you take control.
We’ll create a customized plant health program that includes everything your yard needs — including spider mite control, lawn fertilization, and more.
Get started today: fill out our get started form, call us at (208) 656-9131, or explore our Plant Health Care Services online.
With Lawn Buddies, your landscape is in good hands — and spider mites don’t stand a chance.
Image Source: spider mites, spider mite on leaf
