Can I just wash the mites off?

Washing works for a light infestation, but you must be consistent. You need to spray both the top and bottom of every leaf to catch them all.

Will these pests kill my plant?

If left untreated for a long time, they can weaken the plant significantly. This makes it harder for the corms to store energy for next year's blooms.

Why are there tiny webs on my Montbretia? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving specks.
Look for fine webbing between the stems.
Check if the leaves have a speckled or stippled appearance.

Likely causes

Spider Mite Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see fine, silky webbing between the leaves and tiny yellow or white spots on the foliage surface.
What to do: Spray the leaves thoroughly with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. Follow up by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until the pests are gone.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks stressed and the leaves appear dusty or dull before the mites even take hold.
What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting the foliage occasionally. Ensure the plant is not sitting directly in the path of a hot air vent or heater.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your montbretia

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 the webbing covers the entire plant and leaves are turning brown or brittle, the infestation is severe and needs immediate treatment. A few mites are manageable, but do not ignore them.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your Montbretia well watered during dry spells to discourage mites from settling in. Regularly misting the foliage can also make the environment less hospitable for them.

Montbretia: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your montbretia 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 just wash the mites off?: Washing works for a light infestation, but you must be consistent. You need to spray both the top and bottom of every leaf to catch them all.
Will these pests kill my plant?: If left untreated for a long time, they can weaken the plant significantly. This makes it harder for the corms to store energy for next year's blooms.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are there tiny webs on my Montbretia?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your montbretia?