Are spider mites harmful?

Yes, they suck the sap from the leaves, which causes yellowing and eventual leaf drop. They multiply quickly, so treat them as soon as you see them.

Usually, neem oil or insecticidal soap is enough to handle the problem. Avoid harsh pesticides unless the infestation is severe.

Windmill Palm: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving specks.
Check for fine webbing between the fronds.
Wipe the leaves with a wet paper towel to see if mites come off.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny stippling or yellow dots on the leaves and fine, dusty webs.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the webs. Spray the foliage thoroughly with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days until the mites are gone.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look dull and the plant seems stressed, making it a target for mites.
What to do: Mist the leaves occasionally or place the palm in a spot with better air circulation. Keeping the plant hydrated helps it resist pest infestations.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your windmill palm

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 numbers are manageable, but if the entire plant is covered in thick webs, it requires immediate treatment. A few mites are common in dry summer months.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves clean by dusting them and maintain moderate humidity levels.

Windmill Palm: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your windmill palm 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?: Yes, they suck the sap from the leaves, which causes yellowing and eventual leaf drop. They multiply quickly, so treat them as soon as you see them.
Do I need chemicals?: Usually, neem oil or insecticidal soap is enough to handle the problem. Avoid harsh pesticides unless the infestation is severe.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

What are these tiny pests on my Windmill Palm?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your windmill palm?