Question
Hello
I have a neanthe bella palm house plant and I have had it for about a year or so.  In the last couple of months I noticed that it has something that looks like a very white spider web growing on the stems and the leaves of the plant. At first I thought it was a spider but I didn't see one.  The plant has never been outside and there is no white stuff on the soil.  I have no idea what this is. I think it might be a fungs. I don't want to throw the plant out because I love it and I have had it for a while. The plant is about 10 to 12 inches high, I water it about once a week with regular tap water. Any help you can give me would be great. Thank You.

Answer
Ayanna,

It is not a fungus problem it is an insect problem. It is spider mites. Mites are members of the arachnid class along with spiders and ticks. Hard to visualize well with the naked eye (about 1/60th of an inch in length when full-grown), a hand lens is necessary to positively identify their presence.
The site below has mmore info:

http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/4DMG/Pests/spidmite.htm

Washing infested plants periodically with a strong stream of water will provide some control.
Insecticidal soap is an alternative for home landscapers who prefer not to use pesticides. Or you can use a tablespoon of plain dish soap in a quart of water and spray the plant thouroughly making sure you get the front and backs of all leaves. Spray it twice a week for at least 3 weeks to kill babiees as they hatch.

Good luck.
Darlene