â ModerateFine silvery stippling on leaves ïŋ― early spider mite damage, common in hot, dry conditions.
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Pests
Spider Mites on Pepper Plants
Commonly affects: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum chinense (Chili Pepper)
Fine, silvery stippling appears on the upper leaf surface, with tiny moving specks visible on the underside when checked closely. In advanced infestations, fine webbing appears between leaves and stems, and affected leaves may yellow and drop.
Potential Causes
- 1Hot, dry conditions, especially indoors or in greenhouses with low humidity
- 2Dusty leaves providing a hospitable surface for mites to establish
- 3Stress from underwatering making the plant more susceptible
Solution Steps
- 1Isolate the affected plant to prevent mites spreading to neighbouring plants.
- 2Spray thoroughly with insecticidal soap or neem oil, focusing on leaf undersides where mites concentrate.
- 3Increase humidity around the plant, since spider mites struggle to reproduce above 60% relative humidity.
- 4Rinse leaves periodically with plain water to physically remove mites and dust.
Prevention Tip
Keep humidity above 50ïŋ―60% where possible, and rinse dusty foliage regularly ïŋ― spider mites thrive specifically in hot, dry, dusty conditions.
