Hydrangeas are generally pretty tough customers when it comes to pests, but they aren’t totally invincible. Under the right (or rather, wrong) conditions, spider mites can move in and start causing trouble. Here’s the lowdown on why these tiny critters show up, how to spot them, and—most importantly—how to kick them to the curb.
How to Spot Spider Mites on Your Hydrangeas
Spider mites are big fans of specific humidity levels—or a lack thereof. If you’re overwintering your hydrangeas indoors, keep a close eye on them. When the heat kicks on and the air gets dry, it’s like an open invitation for these pests. Since they’re microscopic, you probably won’t see the actual mites with the naked eye, but these pests leave behind tell-tale fine webbing on the leaves.
They usually start their takeover on the undersides of the leaves, which makes them easy to miss at first. As they suck the sap out of your plant, you’ll start to notice light green or yellowish speckles appearing on the foliage. If you see that thin webbing or those spots, it’s time to take action and treat your Hydrangea.
How to Get Rid of Spider Mites for Good
The good news? These little guys hate moisture. You can actually wash them right off the plant with water. Increasing the humidity makes the hydrangea a much less “cozy” home for them. It also helps to make sure the room isn’t too hot. Try giving your hydrangea a light misting every now and then to keep the air around it nice and humid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Spider Mites:
- Prune any heavily infested leaves and toss them in a sealed trash bag.
- Give the remaining leaves a good spray with a strong stream of water.
- If possible, move your hydrangea to a cooler spot.
- Boost the humidity in the surrounding area.
- For a really stubborn infestation, don’t be afraid to use a plant-safe insecticide.
Remember, spider mites thrive in dry air. When you’re overwintering your hydrangeas, just make sure the air doesn’t get too parched. Keep that humidity up, and your hardy hydrangeas should stay happy, healthy, and pest-free!
