Spider Mites on Indoor Lilac: Identification and Control

Fine cobwebbing on leaves and stems of an indoor lilac, accompanied by leaf withering, strongly suggests spider mites. These tiny arachnids (about pinhead-sized, orange-red) thrive in dry indoor air and can kill plants if unchecked.

Confirm the Pest

Hold white paper under suspect foliage and tap leaves. Look for tiny moving specks on the paper. A hand lens helps. If unsure, snip an affected stem and take it to a reputable local nursery for identification.

Control Options

• Insecticidal soap (e.g., Safer Brand) applied thoroughly to leaf undersides, repeated weekly for 3–4 weeks.
• Neem oil (organic, also fungicidal) used per label directions.
• Increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier; mites hate moisture.
• Isolate the plant to prevent spread to other houseplants.

Test any spray on a few leaves first. With persistence, spider mites can be eradicated and the lilac saved.