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mass cane plant pests


Question
i have a mass cane plant indoors.
I noticed that some of the leaves were turning brown on the edges.  I looked closer and noticed little spider webs all over the branches.
How should I kill the bugs?
Also, what water is best for the plant?

thanks...any advice would be appreciated.


Answer
sounds like spider mites. you should ID the pest first. get to a local garden center/nursery and see what they sell and recommend for spider mites on plants. take a sample(plant and bugs) inclosed in a clear plastic bag for them to examine. seal the bag w/a twistem so they don't get out. normally they will recommend safer soap, neem, or another low toxic pesticide for spraying inside. you could spray the plant  w/orthene or similar systemic pesticide . hose it off in the bath tub or a sink an hour prior to applying the pesticides as per the labeled directions. this will wash off many of the adults. repeat the application a week or 2 later if necessary.
regular tap water is allright. let it sit w/no lid for 24 hours(if possible) so the chlorine will evaporate out. spider mites are usually a sign that the plants are stressing under too dry of conditions.  spray mist the plants 2-3 times per week to add humidity around the foliage.  don't let them wilt.
in a container water by weight. put a saucer under the pot. water and let the plant sit in the excess water for 5-10 minutes.  after that time pour off any excess water in the saucer.  pick up or lean the pot.  it should feel heavy.  don't water again until it feels considerably lighter in weight.  indoors check it every 7-14 days.  watering frequency depends on many factors(sun exposure, wind, day temps, etc.).
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