Are spider mites harmful to pets?

Spider mites are not harmful to pets, but the sprays you use to treat them might be. Keep pets away while applying treatments.

How do I know if the mites are gone?

Look for a lack of new webbing and no new yellow spots on the leaves. Continue checking for a few weeks after the last treatment.

Why does my Corn Plant have pests? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for tiny webs.
Wipe the leaves with a wet paper towel to see if any specks come off.
Isolate the plant from other houseplants to prevent spreading.

Likely causes

Spider mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny white dots or fine webbing between the leaves. The leaves start to look yellow or speckled.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Follow up with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray once a week for 3 weeks.
Dry environment
Possible
How to tell: The plant is located near a heater or in a very dry room. Mites thrive in these conditions.
What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant. Regularly cleaning the leaves with water also discourages mites from settling in.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your corn plant

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

Pests can spread to your entire collection if left untreated. Treat them as soon as you spot the first sign of webbing.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves clean by wiping them down monthly and maintain good humidity levels.

Corn Plant: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your corn plant 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

Are spider mites harmful to pets?: Spider mites are not harmful to pets, but the sprays you use to treat them might be. Keep pets away while applying treatments.
How do I know if the mites are gone?: Look for a lack of new webbing and no new yellow spots on the leaves. Continue checking for a few weeks after the last treatment.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why does my Corn Plant have pests?