Marianne's Response

Silver threads under leaves may be spider mites

Marianne,
I have two new (2013) Rose of Sharon. They have raised brownish spots and tiny white slivers that look a bit like bits of thread on the backs and stems of the top leaves. Yesterday I saw a baby mantis around,and ants all over them. What can I do? Thank you.

Posted by Suzanne Edmondson on June 1, 2014

Marianne's Response

It sounds like you could have spider mites on your shrub. A strong jet of water on the underside of the leaves will help to dislodge the webbing or silver threads that the mites make to protect themselves. If the shrubs are small you can also wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth. An insecticidal soap spray will also control mites, but be careful using an spray on new foliage in the direct sun. The praying mantis is a good insect that is eating the mites, try not to disturb it. Mites can attack when a plant is kept too dry so don't let your shrubs dry out, and use a mulch on top of the soil to conserve moisture. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti