Spider Mite Treatment by SavATree Insects & Diseases Spider mites are invasive pests and members of the arachnid family, with two types commonly found on properties—the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) and the spruce spider mite (Oligonychus ununguis). Both can cause significant damage to a wide range of plants and trees. Signs of a Spider Mite Infestation Spider mites are nearly microscopic and can be difficult to spot, but recognizing the signs of an infestation can help you identify them. Common signs of spider mite damage include: Stippling: Small yellow or bronze patches on leaves which turn brown over time. Defoliation: Significant loss of leaves, leaving the plant looking sparse. Webbing: Silken threads on the undersides of leaves. If you notice any of these signs, try the paper test. Place a white sheet of paper beneath a branch from the affected plant and give it a gentle shake. If tiny, crawling dots appear on the paper, it’s a strong indication of a spider mite infestation. Contact a certified arborist right away for proper treatment. What Causes a Spider Mite Infestation? Spider mites are often introduced to new areas through infested plants or clippings. They thrive in dry climates, becoming active in early spring and peaking in the summer when warm, arid conditions accelerate their reproduction and spread. Inadequate watering can further weaken the overall health of trees and plants, making them more susceptible to infestation. How Do They Harm Your Plant Life? Spider mites are among the many pests that feed by using their piercing-sucking mouthparts to puncture individual plant cells and extract their contents. This damages chlorophyll-containing cells, disrupting photosynthesis and impairing the plant’s ability to produce energy. Over time, a severe infestation depletes vital nutrients, causing leaves to brown, dry out, and eventually fall. The two most common spider mite species are nearly identical to the naked eye, but precise identification isn’t essential for effective treatment. While both share similar biology, damage patterns, and management methods, they can often be distinguished by the types of plants they infest. Two-spotted spider mite: Affects a wide range of vegetation, including eggplants, beans, currants, raspberries, pears, and various houseplants. Spruce spider mite: Primarily targets conifers such as spruce, hemlock, arborvitae, fir trees, and junipers. How to Prevent Spider Mite Infestations To help prevent spider mite infestations, ensure your trees and shrubs are properly watered and regularly inspected. Routine monitoring can catch problems early and give your arborist a chance to intervene before the mites spread. Early intervention is key to a successful management strategy. Preventive care is crucial for a healthy landscape. SavATree’s certified arborists offer proactive measures like proper pruning, insect management, and adequate watering techniques to boost your property’s overall resistance to pest infestations. Where to Find Spider Mite Treatment Near You Spider mites are difficult to eliminate once established, but SavATree's experts can help control populations with targeted treatments. Our ISA Certified Arborists are trained to identify early signs of infestation and implement treatment plans tailored to the needs of your property. We also provide comprehensive insect and mite management programs to protect against a wide variety of pests that may be impacting your landscape. By entrusting your property to our professionals, you can ensure your landscape remains protected against spider mites and other threats. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.