How to eliminate spider mites from plants

Natural 3-week protocol to wipe out the infestation.

Updated on 2026-07-17 · 6 min

Spider mites can decimate your collection in weeks. But with a rigorous and consistent protocol, they are beaten without heavy chemistry.

Isolate infected plants

Immediately move any symptomatic plant to a separate room. Mites spread by contact and air.

The mechanical shower

Invert the plant and thoroughly rinse both sides of the leaves with a medium stream. Removes 60% of adults.

Neem oil treatment

2% neem oil + a few drops of soap, sprayed on all leaves (top and bottom) every 7 days for 3 straight weeks. Do not skip applications: the mite life cycle lasts about 10 days.

Raise humidity

Mites hate humidity. Turn on the humidifier, mist leaves morning and evening. Above 60% humidity mites stop reproducing.