Many plant lovers choose succulents for their low-maintenance nature and the perception that they are resistant to pests, especially compared to tropical plants that thrive in humid environments. This belief comes from the fact that succulents typically thrive in dry conditions, and pests are often associated with moisture and humidity, which are more common in tropical plant care.
While it's true that succulents are much less likely to suffer from pest infestations compared to humidity-loving houseplants, this doesn't mean they are entirely pest-free. Just because succulents thrive in drier conditions doesn’t mean pests can’t find their way to these hardy plants. In fact, one of the most common pests to affect succulents is the spider mite—a tiny arachnid that thrives in dry, low-humidity environments, much like succulents themselves. Spider mites can be particularly troublesome for succulent owners because they are often difficult to detect until the infestation has grown. Left unchecked, these pests can cause significant damage to your plants by feeding on their sap and weakening their overall health. Therefore, understanding how to identify, manage, and prevent spider mites is key to maintaining a healthy and vibrant succulent collection.
What Are Spider Mites?
Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged creatures that belong to the arachnid family, which makes them more closely related to spiders than insects. These pests are incredibly small, often only about the size of a grain of pepper, which can make them difficult to spot with the naked eye. Spider mites are attracted to succulents for a few reasons. First, they thrive in dry, warm environments, which is exactly the type of condition most succulents prefer. This makes succulents an ideal host for spider mites, especially during the warmer months or in homes with low humidity.
Spider mites may be small, but they can cause a lot of damage to your succulents if left unchecked. These pests feed by piercing the plant’s outer tissue and sucking out the sap, which is essential for the plant’s overall health and growth. Over time, this constant feeding weakens the plant, leading to visible damage like leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and eventually leaf drop. Prolonged infestations can lead to weakened plant structure, making the succulent more prone to other issues, such as rot or further pest problems.
How Spider Mites Differ from Other Pests
While spider mites may be small, they are distinctly different from other common succulent pests like aphids, mealybugs, and scale. One of the biggest differences is that spider mites are not insects—they're arachnids, meaning they're related to spiders. This gives them unique behaviors and characteristics that set them apart from more common insect pests.
In terms of size, spider mites are much smaller than most other pests. For example, aphids and mealybugs are more visible to the naked eye, whereas spider mites are tiny enough to go unnoticed until damage has already been done. Aphids and mealybugs are often easier to spot because they leave behind sticky honeydew on your plants, whereas spider mites leave a distinctive pattern of stippling and webbing on the leaves.
Another key difference is where they hide. Spider mites often prefer the undersides of leaves, making them harder to detect than pests like mealybugs, which tend to cluster in more obvious spots like stems or the base of leaves.
How Common Are Spider Mites in Succulents?
Spider mites are, unfortunately, one of the more common pests that can affect succulents, especially in dry, indoor environments. While succulents are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in less humid conditions, this very environment can also make them more susceptible to spider mites. The mites prefer low humidity, which means homes with air conditioning, heating, or naturally dry climates are more prone to spider mite infestations.
Succulents kept indoors, especially during the winter when homes are heated and the air is dry, can become an easy target for spider mites. These pests can also be more prevalent during the summer months, particularly in outdoor succulent gardens where dry, warm weather encourages their rapid reproduction. If your succulents are near other infested plants—either indoors or outdoors—the risk of spider mite infestation increases, as these pests can easily spread from plant to plant.
What Types of Succulents Are More Susceptible to Spider Mites?
Succulents like Echeveria and Haworthia, which have delicate, fleshy leaves, are more attractive to spider mites. These pests find it easier to penetrate the softer leaf tissues and access the sap, making these types of succulents more prone to infestation. Similarly, succulents with soft, fleshy leaves like Sedum and Kalanchoe are also at higher risk. These varieties provide a more inviting environment for spider mites, especially if they’re stressed due to improper care. If your plant has been under-watered or is experiencing environmental stress, it's more likely to attract spider mites looking for an easy target.
On the flip side, tougher varieties of succulents, such as Aloe and Agave, tend to be less prone to spider mite infestations. Their thicker, more fibrous leaves make it harder for spider mites to feed on them, but that doesn’t mean these plants are completely immune. If the environment is right—dry, warm, and with low humidity—even these hardier succulents can suffer from spider mite problems.
How to Identify Spider Mite Infestations
Spider mite infestations can be tricky to spot early on, but catching them before they become a full-blown problem is key to keeping your succulents healthy. One of the first visual clues you might notice is discoloration on the leaves, which can appear as small yellow or brown specks. This stippling effect happens because spider mites feed by piercing the plant’s cells and sucking out the sap, leaving behind damaged areas.
These fine, silky threads are often found on the undersides of the leaves or between stems, which is where spider mites like to hide and multiply. It’s easy to overlook this webbing, especially if you're not regularly inspecting your plants, but once it appears, it’s a strong indicator that spider mites are present.
Besides visible signs, watch for common plant symptoms such as wilting, stunted growth, or leaves dropping off prematurely. These issues arise when the infestation becomes severe, as the mites rob your plant of essential nutrients.
How to Get Rid of Spider Mites- Natural Remedies
When it comes to getting rid of spider mites on succulents, natural and non-toxic methods are effective without harming your plants or the environment. Here are some simple, eco-friendly solutions to consider.
- A strong stream of water can be one of the easiest and most effective ways to dislodge spider mites from your succulent’s leaves. Take the plant outdoors or to a sink, and use a spray bottle or hose with good pressure to wash away the mites. Be sure to focus on the undersides of the leaves, where spider mites tend to hide.
- Plant-safe insecticidal soaps work by breaking down the mites’ protective outer coating, causing them to dehydrate. These soaps are non-toxic to humans and pets but need to be applied thoroughly, making sure to cover all leaf surfaces, including the undersides. Regular applications every few days may be needed until the mites are gone.
- Neem oil is a natural pesticide that’s highly effective against spider mites. It works by disrupting their feeding and reproduction. Mix neem oil with water and a few drops of dish soap to help it adhere to the leaves. Spray it on all parts of the plant, repeating the process every week until the infestation is under control.
- Introducing predator insects, like ladybugs or predatory mites, is a natural way to keep spider mites in check. These beneficial insects feed on spider mites, controlling their population without harming your plants.
- If you prefer homemade remedies, try using diluted rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol mixed with water) or a mild dish soap solution. Both can kill spider mites on contact but should be applied carefully to avoid damaging your plant’s leaves.
Chemical Treatments for Severe Infestations
If natural methods don’t work and the spider mite infestation is severe, chemical treatments may be necessary. However, these should be used carefully to avoid harming your succulents and the surrounding environment. Chemical pesticides or miticides should be considered only when the infestation is extensive or if natural methods haven’t worked. Severe infestations can quickly damage your succulents, and immediate action may be required to save the plant.
Miticides are specifically formulated to target mites and are generally safe for succulents when used as directed. Make sure to choose a miticide labeled for ornamental plants or houseplants and avoid using harsh pesticides that could damage delicate succulents.
When using chemical treatments, always follow the instructions on the label. Ensure good ventilation when applying the product, especially if you’re treating indoor plants. It’s important to dilute the chemicals properly and wear gloves to protect your skin. Also, avoid treating plants during the hottest part of the day to prevent potential leaf burn. Overuse of chemicals can also disrupt your plant’s natural balance, so use them sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.
Spider Mite Infestation Prevention
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping spider mites away from your succulents. By creating a healthy environment for your plants, you can reduce the risk of future infestations.
- Strong, healthy plants are less susceptible to pests. Make sure your succulents are getting the right amount of water, light, and air circulation. Overwatering or underwatering can weaken the plant, making it more vulnerable to pests like spider mites.
- Check your succulents regularly for early signs of spider mites or other pests. Wipe down the leaves periodically to remove dust and dirt, as clean plants are less likely to attract mites. Always inspect new plants before adding them to your collection to avoid bringing in unwanted pests.
- If you bring new plants into your home, it’s a good idea to quarantine them for a couple of weeks to make sure they aren’t harboring pests. Similarly, if you notice an infestation on one plant, separate it from the others to prevent the mites from spreading.
- Regularly applying a light spray of neem oil or insecticidal soap can help keep spider mites and other pests at bay. These treatments create a protective barrier and are safe to use as part of your regular succulent care routine.
