Can I use regular soap to kill the mites?

Use a mild, fragrance-free dish soap diluted in water. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the delicate fronds.

Should I isolate my fern?

Yes, move it away from other plants immediately to prevent the mites from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the pests are gone.

Delta maidenhair fern: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for fine webbing between the stems.
Check the undersides of leaves for tiny moving dots.
Inspect the leaves for small yellow or white stippling.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny white or red specks moving on the leaves and fine silk webs between the stems.
What to do: Gently wash the fronds with a soft cloth and lukewarm water to remove the mites. Follow up with an application of neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days for a month.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your delta maidenhair fern

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If you see heavy webbing, the infestation is severe and requires immediate treatment. A few mites can be managed quickly with regular cleaning.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the humidity high and the plant well watered, as mites avoid moist environments.

Delta maidenhair fern: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your delta maidenhair fern and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I use regular soap to kill the mites?: Use a mild, fragrance-free dish soap diluted in water. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the delicate fronds.
Should I isolate my fern?: Yes, move it away from other plants immediately to prevent the mites from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the pests are gone.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why does my Fringed Maidenhair Fern have pests?