How to Rid Orchids of Mites

Watch your orchids carefully. If mites attack your orchids, they will suck the juice from the plants and do damage to leaves and blooms. Inspect your orchids by hand daily, especially if they're outside or in a greenhouse, where they're more likely to be exposed to pests like mites. Orchids infected with mites look dusty, and may display holey leaves. If they're infected with spider mites they'll also be covered in a spider web-like substance. Pay particular attention to the undersides of leaves, where mites congregate.

If you find orchids that are infested, immediately separate them from the rest of your plants to keep the mites from spreading. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any mite colonies that you find, and discard it.

Use pesticides to get rid of mites on your orchids and keep them from coming back. Mite-specific pesticides are available at home and garden shops. Always follow manufacturer directions when using miticides.

Mix a home remedy for mites if you don't want to use pesticide in your home or greenhouse. Use 50 percent laundry detergent to 50 percent warm water, or 50 percent alcohol to 50 percent warm water, and apply it in the same way you would apply a commercial pesticide.

Release lacewing moths and ladybugs, if your orchids are in a greenhouse or outdoor location, as a further alternative to pesticides. These insects feed on mite larvae, and will naturally kill off any mite population.