How to Identify and Control Mites on Succulents

Generally, succulents are problem-free plants that seem to thrive on neglect. Don’t over- or underwater, and you’ll be able to keep these thick leafed, eye-catching beauties thriving in your home or garden.

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Unfortunately, like all types of plants, occasional visitors can turn into unwelcome pests draining the life and beauty from your beloved succulents. Mites are one type of pest that can damage your trendy collection of colorful, shapely plants.

We’ve got everything you need to know about three common types of mites that you may find feeding on your succulents below, including identification details and control options.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

Not actually insects, mites in general are more closely related to spiders than six-legged creatures.

In general, these tiny arachnids have piercing-sucking mouthparts that pierce through the epidermis of the plant and suck out the cell contents.

Their feeding causes the plant victim to become dull in color, covered in light-colored specks. Affected plants will sometimes look bronzed, sunburnt, or pale, with reduced growth and vigor.

Plus, when populations of these pests are large enough, you might notice their fine webs wrapping the leaves, acting as a moisture barrier and protective layer for the eggs and juveniles.

Mite infestations are not as common for succulents as problems with scale or mealybugs, but they do pop up on occasion.

These pests typically prefer hot and dry conditions, so you may notice infestations during the warmer seasons. Keep this in mind, because it will become important later on!