Are spider mites harmful?

They suck the sap from your plant, which weakens it over time. If left alone, they can cause significant leaf drop.

Do I need to isolate my plant?

Yes, move it away from other plants immediately to prevent the mites from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the infestation is cleared.

Watermelon Peperomia: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of leaves for webbing.
Check for tiny moving specks on the stems.
Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to see if debris comes off.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny yellow stippling on the leaves and fine, dusty webbing between stems.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to the leaves every 7 days until the pests are gone.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks stressed and the leaves develop dry, brittle edges.
What to do: Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray with water. Grouping plants together can also help create a more humid microclimate.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your watermelon peperomia

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 covering the plant, the infestation is severe. Minor spotting is common, but it can spread to other plants quickly if left untreated.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves clean by wiping them occasionally and maintain moderate humidity levels. Inspect new plants before bringing them near your collection.

Watermelon Peperomia: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your watermelon peperomia 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?: They suck the sap from your plant, which weakens it over time. If left alone, they can cause significant leaf drop.
Do I need to isolate my plant?: Yes, move it away from other plants immediately to prevent the mites from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the infestation is cleared.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why does my Watermelon Peperomia have tiny spots?