How to Get Rid of Spiders in Hanging Plants?

Hanging plants are beautiful additions to our homes and gardens. However, they can inadvertently attract spiders due to their suspended nature and the often warm, humid environment they create. Let’s explore comprehensive methods to address these unwelcome guests.

Understanding the Spider Situation

1. Are They Harmful?

Before you wage war on these eight-legged inhabitants, it’s crucial to ascertain if they’re truly harmful.

• Beneficial Predators: Many spiders are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans. They act as natural pest controllers, capturing and consuming various insects that might otherwise damage plants.
• Spotting the Dangerous Ones: While most are harmless, a few spider species can be harmful if they bite. It’s essential to identify the type of spider you’re dealing with. A quick online search or consulting with local pest experts can provide clarity.

Natural Remedies to Bid the Spiders Goodbye

While many spiders play a crucial role in controlling pest populations, having them in close proximity, especially in household hanging plants, might not be everyone’s preference. Fortunately, Mother Nature provides several remedies to address this issue without resorting to harsh chemicals.

1. Water Spray:

• Procedure: One of the most straightforward methods, a gentle misting or spraying of water, can be enough to dislodge spiders and their webs from your plants. Use a spray bottle filled with water, ensuring it is set to a mist or soft spray to prevent any potential damage to delicate plants.
• Why It Works: This method mimics the natural disruptions spiders experience outdoors, like rain. Over time, consistent spraying can make your plant a less appealing home for spiders.

2. Neem Oil:

• Procedure: Extracted from the neem tree, neem oil has been used as a natural pesticide for centuries. Mix a teaspoon of neem oil with a liter of water and a drop of dish soap (which acts as an emulsifier and helps the mixture adhere to the plant). Thoroughly spray the plant, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and any nooks where spiders might hide.
• Why It Works: Neem oil has compounds repellent to many pests, including spiders. Its antifungal properties can also prevent mold and mildew, which might attract certain pests.

3. Peppermint Essential Oil:

• Procedure: Spiders aren’t fans of strong scents, and peppermint is at the top. Combine 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil in a spray bottle with a cup of water. Mist your plant and the surrounding area lightly.
• Why It Works: The potent aroma of peppermint interferes with spiders’ sensitive chemoreceptors, making it an unwelcoming environment.

4. Diatomaceous Earth:

• Procedure: This naturally occurring, soft sedimentary rock can be crumbled into a fine white powder. Lightly sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your hanging plant or even on the plant itself.
• Why It Works: Diatomaceous earth causes dehydration in spiders and other small pests by piercing their exoskeletons. It’s a non-toxic powder, making it safe for most plants and pets.

5. Lemon Peels:

• Procedure: Place fresh lemon peels or rub them on the pot and around the base of your hanging plants.
• Why It Works: Similar to peppermint, the strong citrus scent of lemons is repulsive to spiders.

6. Cedar:

• Procedure: If your hanging plants are indoors, consider using cedar hangers or placing cedar blocks nearby. You can mulch with cedar chips around the area for outdoor hanging plants.
• Why It Works: The natural oils and aroma of cedar wood deter spiders and many other pests.

Preventative Tips:

While these remedies can help remove existing spiders, regular checks and early interventions can prevent infestations. Check plants for webs during regular care routines and remove them when spotted. Also, ensure the space around your hanging plants remains clean, minimizing the attraction of spiders.

Maintenance to Keep Spiders Away

Regular care and attention can help deter spiders from seeing your hanging plants as an ideal home. By implementing these practices, you can create an environment that’s less appealing to spiders while also benefiting your plants.

1. Regular Cleaning:

• Procedure: Routinely dust, sweep, or vacuum the area around your hanging plants. This removes webs and clears away dead leaves, other pests, and insects that spiders prey on. A clean environment reduces the overall food supply and hiding spots for spiders.
• Why It Works: Spiders are less likely to settle in frequently disturbed areas. Regular cleaning disrupts their sense of security, making them more likely to search for more secluded areas.

2. Pruning and Deadheading:

• Procedure: Prune your plants by removing dead or overgrown branches and leaves. Deadheading or removing spent flowers can also be beneficial. This opens up the plant, increases air circulation, and removes potential hiding spots for spiders.
• Why It Works: Overgrown or densely packed plants provide more shelter and shadowed areas, making them more attractive for spiders. Regular pruning reduces these secluded spots.

3. Relocation:

• Procedure: If your hanging plant is in a dim, quiet corner, consider moving it to a brighter or more trafficked location. For outdoor hanging plants, avoid placing them near outdoor lights that attract other insects at night.
• Why It Works: Spiders are attracted to areas with less human activity and those rich in other insects. By changing your plant’s location, you can disrupt these conditions.

4. Check for Other Pests:

• Procedure: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of other pests, such as aphids or whiteflies. If you notice any, take measures to eliminate them using natural or chemical treatments suitable for the plant type.
• Why It Works: Spiders are predators that feed on other insects. If your plant has a pest problem, it’s a food source for spiders. By controlling other pests, you reduce the plant’s attractiveness to spiders.

5. Refresh the Soil:

• Procedure: Every once in a while, consider changing the soil or adding a fresh layer. This can deter pests, including spiders, which might reside in the soil.
• Why It Works: Over time, soil can become compacted, and organic matter may decay, attracting pests. Fresh soil can introduce a less hospitable environment for them.

6. Install Sticky Traps:

• Procedure: Place sticky traps near your hanging plants, especially if they’re indoors. These traps will capture spiders and other small pests that come near them.
• Why It Works: Sticky traps can act as an early warning system, indicating if there’s an uptick in spider or pest activity. This can prompt more focused intervention.

When to Seek Professional Help

If the spider issue persists after all your efforts, or if you’re dealing with a potentially harmful spider species, it might be time to bring in the experts.

• Consultation: Most pest control services offer consultations. They can provide identification services, ensuring you’re dealing with a species that requires intervention.
• Eco-friendly Services: If you’re concerned about chemical treatments, ask about eco-friendly pest control options that won’t harm your plants or the environment.

Conclusion

Although spiders can be beneficial, it’s understandable that not everyone wants them in their hanging plants. You can significantly reduce spider incursions by understanding the situation, employing natural remedies, and maintaining the plant and its surroundings.

And always remember, the aim is coexistence. With the right balance, both your plants and the environment can thrive.

Also, you may like some more gardening articles:

• Why Do Hanging Plants Lose All Their Flowers?
• How often should you water your hanging plants
• Why are my hanging baskets smelling?