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Pests
Spider Mites on Cacti
Commonly affects: Cactaceae (Cactus)
Fine, rusty-bronze stippling or discolouration develops on the cactus skin, sometimes with fine webbing visible in severe infestations.
Potential Causes
- 1Hot, dry indoor conditions favouring mite reproduction
- 2Dusty surfaces providing a hospitable environment
- 3Stressed or drought-affected plants being more vulnerable
Solution Steps
- 1Rinse the plant thoroughly with a strong water spray, taking care around spines
- 2Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, repeating every 5-7 days
- 3Increase humidity slightly around the plant if practical
- 4Isolate affected plants from other cacti and succulents
Prevention Tip
Spider mite damage on cacti often looks like rusty scarring and is sometimes mistaken for sunburn â check for the mites themselves before assuming light damage.
