Spider Mites on Banana Plants
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of banana leaves, causing stippling (tiny yellow or white dots) and a general decline in leaf health. They are most problematic on indoor banana plants where the dry air favors their reproduction.
Identification
Spider mites are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Look for fine webbing on the undersides of leaves and stippling (tiny yellow dots) on the upper surface. Hold a white piece of paper under a leaf and tap the leaf — tiny moving specks on the paper are mites.
Treatment
- Spray leaves forcefully with water to dislodge mites — especially the undersides
- Increase humidity — mites thrive in dry conditions (40% humidity or below)
- Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to all leaf surfaces, repeating every 5-7 days for 3-4 applications
- For severe infestations, a miticide may be necessary
- Release predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) as a biological control
Prevention
Maintain humidity above 50%. Inspect plants regularly, especially in winter when indoor air is driest. Quarantine new plants before introducing them near your bananas. See also Brown Leaf Edges (a common result of the dry conditions that favor mites).