Are spider mites harmful to humans?

No, spider mites only feed on plants and are harmless to people and pets.

Should I use chemicals to kill the mites?

It is best to use organic options like neem oil or insecticidal soap first. These are effective and safer for an herb you might use in the kitchen.

Rosemary: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving dots.
Check for fine webbing between the needles.
Wipe a leaf with a white paper towel to see if any reddish or brown specks appear.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny yellow stippling on the leaves and very fine, silky webs between the stems.
What to do: Wash the plant thoroughly with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. Follow up by spraying the leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days for three weeks.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The plant is in a very dry room, and the leaves are losing their luster and turning pale.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with better air circulation. Avoid misting the plant, as rosemary prefers dry air over damp, stagnant conditions.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your rosemary

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

Small infestations are easy to manage, but if the entire plant is covered in thick webs, it may be difficult to clear. A few stray mites are normal in many home environments.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your rosemary in a bright, airy location and inspect the foliage every time you water.

Rosemary: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rosemary 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 humans?: No, spider mites only feed on plants and are harmless to people and pets.
Should I use chemicals to kill the mites?: It is best to use organic options like neem oil or insecticidal soap first. These are effective and safer for an herb you might use in the kitchen.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

What are these tiny spots on my rosemary leaves?