Schefflera Symptoms: Spider Mites or Something Else?

Stuey's dwarf schefflera has small brown spots on leaves/trunks, some leaves appear eaten, others drop. Good morning sun, bright all day. Asks if spider mites and treatment; safety for cats.

Spider Mites Don't Cause "Eaten" Leaves or Brown Spots

Spider mites cause stippling (tiny pale dots) and mottling, not brown necrotic spots or missing leaf tissue. "Eaten away" suggests chewing insects (caterpillars, beetles) or disease.

Check for Actual Spider Mites

• Undersides: dust-like specks, fine webbing.
• Tap leaf over white paper — mites fall as moving dots.

If Not Mites: Email Photos

Whole plant + closeup of spots to wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com. Brown spots + tissue loss = likely fungal/bacterial leaf spot, edema, or chewing pests.

Spider Mite Safety

Spider mites are not harmful to humans or pets. Cats sleeping under plant are safe.

Treatment If Confirmed

Insecticidal soap or neem oil, thorough underside coverage, repeat 5–7 days. Increase humidity (mites hate it).