Are spider mites harmful to my plant?

Yes, they suck the sap from the leaves, which weakens the plant over time. If left untreated, they can cause significant leaf loss.

Should I isolate my plant?

Yes, move the infested plant away from your other houseplants immediately. Mites can easily spread to other plants in your home.

Why does my Money Tree have pests? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving specks.
Look for fine webbing between the leaf joints.
Check if the leaves have a pale, stippled appearance.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny white dots on the leaves and fine webbing between the stems. The leaves may look dusty or pale.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days until the pests are gone.
Dry Air
Possible
How to tell: The plant is located near a heater or vent, making the air very dry. This environment encourages mite reproduction.
What to do: Move the plant away from direct heat sources. Increase humidity by placing a pebble tray with water nearby or misting the leaves occasionally.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your money tree

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

A few mites are manageable, but heavy infestations can cause rapid leaf drop. Treat the plant as soon as you see the first signs of webbing.

Stopping it coming back

Wipe the leaves clean every month and keep the plant away from dry heat vents. Maintaining moderate humidity helps keep mites away.

Money Tree: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your money tree 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.

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Questions people ask

Are spider mites harmful to my plant?: Yes, they suck the sap from the leaves, which weakens the plant over time. If left untreated, they can cause significant leaf loss.
Should I isolate my plant?: Yes, move the infested plant away from your other houseplants immediately. Mites can easily spread to other plants in your home.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why does my Money Tree have pests?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your money tree?