Spider Mites on Sarracenia: Spray, Don't Just Wash

Eugene in New Zealand has 5-year-old S. purpurea in a conservatory. Yellowish-orange pin-sized spiders with webs—spider mites? Advised Confidor (imidacloprid) but hesitant. Asks about washing them off (dense foliage makes it hard) and whether water in pitchers harms plants. Also asks when to cut dead pitchers (brown but still hard).

Spray, Don't Just Wash

Spider mites are tough. Confidor (imidacloprid) is a systemic insecticide—safe for Sarracenia. Only avoid insecticidal soaps (break down into fertilizer). Permethrin-based sprays also work (toxic to arachnids, safe for mammals—used for lice/scabies).

Water in Pitchers Is Fine

S. purpurea needs water to catch prey. Rain fills them naturally.

Cut Dead Leaves Early

Remove as soon as browning starts—prevents winter mold.

Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.cobraplant.com