⚠ MinorDusty, dull foliage with fine stippling � a sign of spider mite feeding in hot, dry conditions.
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Pests
Spider Mites on Rosemary
Commonly affects: Salvia rosmarinus (Rosemary)
Fine stippling or a dusty, dull appearance develops on needle-like leaves, with fine webbing visible between stems in advanced infestations. Affected foliage can dry out and drop.
Potential Causes
- 1Hot, dry indoor conditions, particularly for potted rosemary kept indoors over winter
- 2Low humidity around the plant reducing natural mite predators
- 3Dusty foliage providing a hospitable surface for mites to establish
Solution Steps
- 1Rinse the plant thoroughly under running water to physically dislodge mites and eggs.
- 2Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected foliage, repeating every 5�7 days for two to three cycles.
- 3Increase humidity slightly around indoor plants, though rosemary still needs good airflow to avoid fungal issues.
- 4Move the plant to a spot with more natural airflow rather than a still, hot windowsill.
Prevention Tip
Rinse indoor rosemary foliage occasionally and avoid placing it directly against a hot, dry radiator or windowsill, since spider mites specifically favour those conditions.
