Spider mites (Tetranychidae) are among the most common pests, not only on oleander. These are different species from the group of arachnids, and they form the only thread-spinning family within the mites - hence the name. The tiny animals, only 0.8 millimeters long, can hardly be seen with the naked eye, but they can cause even greater damage.
How to protect oleanders from spider mites and fight them?
To protect oleander from spider mites, you should ensure high humidity by spraying the plant regularly. In the event of an infestation, products from specialist retailers, home remedies such as rapeseed oil or creating damp conditions by putting a plastic bag over them can help.
Spider mites love oleander
In general, spider mites are not particularly picky when it comes to their food plants. However, they attack certain plants particularly frequently. One of these favorite plants is the oleander, which seems to be a real treat for the animals. An infestation can hardly be avoided, after all, the arachnids are in the air and are blown everywhere with it. Particularly at risk are oleanders that have wintered warm and dry, as well as specimens that are in warm and protected locations (for example in the sun on a house wall). Free-standing oleanders, on the other hand, are rarely attacked.
Effectively prevent spider mite infestation
You can prevent spider mite infestation to a certain extent. Since the animals prefer a dry and warm climate, you only need to ensure high humidity or a slight breeze. Oleanders should be protected, but on hot summer days it is better to move the pot away from the house wall and leave it free standing. Mist the oleander regularly using a spray bottle so that the foliage is moist. In winter, the oleander should not be left in a warm living room, but rather overwintered in a frost-free and bright place at around five degrees Celsius. Don't forget to water the plant once a week in winter.
How to get rid of annoying spider mites
Specialized remedies (€28.00 on Amazon) that are available in specialist stores can help against spider mites - or some tried-and-tested home remedies, the ingredients of which you probably have in your kitchen. If there is a slight infestation - and if the oleander is not yet too large - you can spray the plant vigorously with water and then put a plastic bag over it. The humidity created under the bag reliably kills the spider mites. Sprays based on rapeseed oil have also proven to be effective, with which the undersides of the leaves in particular are wetted.
Tip
If you spray the oleander regularly with water and then inspect it closely, you can detect a spider mite infestation at an early stage thanks to the water droplets glittering in the fine webs.