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Yucca with Dusty Leaves: Spider Mites or Oxidation?

A light grayish film on yucca leaves can be natural oxidation—harmless. But if it's accompanied by tiny moving specks and fine webs, it's spider mites, encouraged by high heat from direct sun.

Treatment

Mix 1 part isopropyl alcohol with 5 parts water plus a squirt of dish soap. Wipe all leaf surfaces (top and bottom) and spray into leaf-stem crevices.

Watering Adjustment

Yuccas in strong light need more frequent watering—water thoroughly as soon as the top half-inch of soil feels dry. Underwatering also invites spider mites.

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