Schefflera Arboricola Spider Mites and Repotting Disaster

Golden capella (variegated schefflera) separated and repotted into oversized pots (30 cm), now covered in spider mites and webs, leaf drop, no new growth. Expert Will Creed: oversized pots are the bigger problem—excess soil causes root rot, killing plants faster than mites. Stress from repotting invites pests.

Fixes

1. Undo repotting: recombine plants in original-sized pot.
2. Treat mites: spray all surfaces with dish soap + water until dripping wet. One thorough treatment usually works.
3. Water only when top quarter of soil dry.
4. Keep within 4 ft of south window or directly at north window.

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