Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the needles for tiny webs.
- Shake a branch over a white sheet of paper to see if tiny specks fall off.
- Check if the foliage color has faded to a dull bronze.
Likely causes
Spider mites
Most likelyHow to tell: Look for tiny, web-like structures between needles and a dull, yellowed or bronze tint to the foliage. You can often see them by shaking a branch over a white piece of paper.
What to do: Spray the entire plant thoroughly with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. Follow up with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days for 3 weeks to catch any remaining eggs.
Juniper scale
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, and usually happens when the juniper is stressed by poor airflow or drought. Look for small, raised bumps on the stems that look like tiny shells.
What to do: Scrape off the visible scales with a soft brush if the infestation is small. Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season to smother any remaining insects.
Find out what's wrong with your common juniper
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.
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When to worry
It is serious if you see extensive webbing and needles turning brown, as this indicates a heavy infestation. A few mites are normal, but they multiply quickly in dry heat.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your juniper healthy with consistent watering and ensure it has plenty of space for good airflow. Regularly misting the foliage during hot spells can help deter mites.
Keep your common juniper healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Will spider mites kill my juniper?
- Yes, if left untreated, they can cause significant needle drop and branch dieback. Catching them early is the best way to save the plant.
- Can I use regular dish soap to kill them?
- It is better to use a dedicated insecticidal soap. Household dish soaps can sometimes contain additives that might burn the needles of your juniper.
More problems with Common Juniper
Back to the Common Juniper guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.