I have an ivy plant in my kitchen that has these little red spider mites. My plant was luscious and green and is now turning dry and yellow! Does anyone know of some sort of home remedy? Trying to avoid harsh chemicals, but will try if nothing else. Or, do I need to get rid of my once-lovely plant and start over???
Thanks!!
Hi Dawn, This may be a tedious job depending on how large your ivy is, but you need to wash the leaves. Take your plant outside and wash each leaf with a cotton ball and lukewarm water. Both sides of the leaves. If your cotton ball has mites on it, switch to a new one because you don't want to transfer the mites to a new leaf. Water the plant well, and leave it outside for a few days. If you can't leave it outside transfer it a new room. If there are mites in the area where the plant was they will die in a day or two if the plant is not returned. Good luck.
Yack
I have read about washing the leaves with warm soapy water, or alcohol to rid them of mites.
I also found this remedy: Mix 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 2 cups flour , 2 gallons water and spray on affected plant.
Azzy
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Holey moley....ok, washing the leaves.....ugh. Buttermilk eh? Worth a try - thanks!!!!
Dawn - MI
Sounds tedious!! =) Definitely can do it outside though....ok....thanks!!
My grandma always said to mist the plant with brewed tea!!
though....ok....thanks!!
My advice is get it out of the house! I had an ivy once and it got mites too. Before I knew it they were on my other plants also. I bought some spray stuff but it didn't make any difference. I landed up losing some beautiful plants. Needless to say, I've never had another ivy, nor will I ever have one again.
Katrina in KS
Eeek! I've had a few ivy over the years and this is the first time I've ever gotten infested. I think I'll clean it up and leave it outside for a few days. If it doesn't start to perk up, I guess I'll cut my losses before other plants are attacked.. thanks.
Insecticidal Soap is non-toxic and works great on mites. You can get it at any nursery or home center. You should spray all your other plants too as it spreads easily.
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