Summer is their heyday - that's when spider mites storm the plant buffet and cause considerable damage. They may only be small, but they come in droves because they all want one thing: the sap! They mainly attack roses, but also cucumbers, beans and fruit trees. Even houseplants are not safe from them. The unpleasant thing is that they secrete a poisonous secretion with their saliva that can transmit viruses. 3 tips on how to rid affected plants of spider mites.

Spider mites: What you can do against the pests

1. repel spider mites with water - and keep them away

The pests shy away from water, which is why it is sufficient to spray the plants regularly with water. Make sure that the soil does not dry out, as this creates ideal conditions for the beasts. Keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging.

These plants like a shady spot

2. insider tip: neem oil

Neem oil is the perfect pest control agent. Mixed with water, the plants are free of spider mites after just a few days. The good thing is that it only destroys pests, beneficial insects have nothing to fear. Tip: Add some of the water mixture to the soil. If the pests come back, remove the top layer of soil. If this does not help, replace the soil completely.

3. plastic sheeting against spider mites

You can literally suffocate the pests under plastic sheeting. First remove the spider mites thoroughly with water, then wrap the plant. After around two weeks, the remaining mites will be gone and you and your plant can breathe a sigh of relief.