Can I use dish soap to kill them?

A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant. Always test a small area first.

Will my plant recover?

Yes, if you catch it early. The damaged leaves will not turn green again, but new growth will be healthy once the mites are gone.

Calathea Orbifolia: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves with a flashlight.
Check for fine webbing near the leaf joints.
Inspect nearby plants for signs of the same pests.

Likely causes

Dry Air
Most likely
How to tell: You see fine, dusty webbing between the leaf stems or on the undersides of the leaves.
What to do: Increase the humidity immediately. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites and their webs.
Infestation from other plants
Possible
How to tell: Small yellow dots appear on the leaves, and the plant looks generally dull or faded.
What to do: Isolate the plant from your other greenery. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to the leaves once a week for 3 weeks.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your calathea orbifolia

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 and the leaves are turning yellow or dropping, the infestation is severe. Act quickly to save the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean. Keep the plant well hydrated and in a humid spot.

Calathea Orbifolia: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your calathea orbifolia 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 dish soap to kill them?: A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant. Always test a small area first.
Will my plant recover?: Yes, if you catch it early. The damaged leaves will not turn green again, but new growth will be healthy once the mites are gone.

Why does my Orbifolia Calathea have spider mites?