Spiders in houseplants usually indicate a steady food source of other insects nearby. If you are wondering how to get rid of spiders in plants, you are likely dealing with webs, tiny eggs, or the spiders themselves hiding under leaves. The good news is that most spiders are harmless and even beneficial, but when they take over your indoor garden, you want them gone fast. This guide covers simple, natural methods to remove spiders without harming your plants or your home.
First, understand why spiders appear. They come for the bugs—gnats, aphids, or fruit flies. Remove the food, and the spiders will leave. But you can also take direct action. Below, you will find a clear plan to evict spiders from your plant collection.
Why Spiders Invade Houseplants
Spiders are hunters. They build webs to catch small insects that feed on your plants. If you see a spider, check for other pests first. Common culprits include fungus gnats, spider mites, or mealybugs. Once you control these, the spider population drops naturally.
Indoor plants offer shelter and moisture. Spiders like dark, undisturbed spots. Overwatered soil attracts gnats, which attract spiders. So, your watering habits might be the root cause.
Common Spider Species Found On Plants
- Common house spiders – small, brown, harmless
- Jumping spiders – curious, active during day
- Cellar spiders – long legs, messy webs
- Wolf spiders – larger, fast, ground dwellers
None of these are dangerous to humans, but they can be a nuisance. If you have a phobia, you want them gone immediately.
How To Get Rid Of Spiders In Plants
This section covers the most effective methods. Use them in order, starting with the gentlest approach.
Step 1: Manual Removal
Put on gloves. Use a soft brush or a damp cloth to wipe leaves and stems. Remove webs with a cotton swab. Check the soil surface and pot edges. Pick off spiders you see and relocate them outside. This is the safest method for your plant.
For larger spiders, use a jar and a piece of paper. Trap the spider, slide the paper under, and release it far from your home.
Step 2: Reduce Moisture And Food Sources
Let the soil dry out between waterings. Spiders need moisture, and gnats breed in wet soil. Use a moisture meter to avoid overwatering. Remove dead leaves and debris from the pot. Clean the area around your plants weekly.
Check for other pests. If you see tiny flying insects, set up yellow sticky traps. This cuts off the spider’s food supply.
Step 3: Natural Repellents
Spiders dislike strong scents. Mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Add a drop of dish soap to help it stick. Spray the soil and the pot rim. Avoid spraying leaves directly if the plant is sensitive. Test on one leaf first.
Other effective oils: tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. Reapply every few days until spiders are gone.
Diy Spider Repellent Spray Recipe
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops peppermint oil
- 1 teaspoon mild liquid soap
- Shake well and spray around plant base
Step 4: Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a powder made from fossilized algae. It cuts the spider’s exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Sprinkle a thin layer on top of the soil. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling the dust. Reapply after watering. DE is safe for plants and pets when used correctly.
Do not use pool-grade DE; it is toxic. Always buy food-grade.
Step 5: Sticky Traps And Barriers
Place sticky traps near the pot or on the soil surface. These catch crawling spiders and other insects. You can also wrap a band of petroleum jelly around the pot rim. Spiders cannot cross this sticky barrier.
For pots on shelves, move them away from walls. Spiders often travel along baseboards and curtains.
Preventing Spiders From Returning
Once the spiders are gone, keep them away with simple habits.
Regular Plant Inspections
Check your plants every time you water. Look under leaves, along stems, and on the soil. Early detection stops an infestation. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth monthly to remove dust and webs.
Seal Entry Points
Spiders enter homes through cracks. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards. Use caulk or weather stripping. This also keeps out other bugs.
Reduce Clutter
Spiders hide in piles of paper, boxes, or clothing near plants. Keep the area around your plants clean and open. Vacuum regularly, especially under furniture and shelves.
Adjust Lighting
Spiders prefer dark corners. Place plants in brighter areas if possible. Use a small grow light to discourage web building. Spiders avoid well-lit spaces.
When To Use Chemical Sprays
Chemical insecticides should be a last resort. Most are toxic to plants and pets. If natural methods fail, choose a product labeled for indoor use and safe for foliage. Spray only the soil and pot, not the leaves. Follow instructions exactly.
Better alternatives: insecticidal soap or neem oil. These target insects without harming spiders directly. They break the food chain, so spiders leave on their own.
Neem Oil Application
- Mix 1 teaspoon neem oil with 1 quart water
- Add a few drops of dish soap
- Spray soil and lower leaves every 5 days
- Stop after 2 weeks or when pests are gone
Neem oil also repels spiders. It smells strong but fades quickly.
Mistakes To Avoid
Do not overwater your plants to flush out spiders. This causes root rot and attracts more bugs. Do not use bleach or vinegar directly on soil; they kill plants. Do not crush spiders on leaves; it leaves residue that attracts ants.
Avoid using too much essential oil. Concentrated oils can burn plant leaves. Always dilute. Do not ignore the problem. A few spiders can become many if food is abundant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Spiders In Houseplants Dangerous?
Most houseplant spiders are harmless to humans. They rarely bite. The main concern is webs and eggs. If you see a black widow or brown recluse, remove it carefully. These are rare indoors.
How Do I Get Rid Of Spider Eggs On Plants?
Wipe eggs off with a damp paper towel. Check under leaves and in leaf joints. Dispose of the towel outside. Repeat weekly until no new eggs appear. Do not crush eggs on the plant.
Can Spider Mites Be Confused With Spiders?
Yes. Spider mites are tiny pests that create fine webbing. They are not true spiders. They damage leaves by sucking sap. Treat spider mites with neem oil or insecticidal soap. True spiders do not harm plants directly.
Will Cinnamon Get Rid Of Spiders In Plants?
Cinnamon repels some insects but not spiders directly. It can help control gnats. Sprinkle cinnamon powder on dry soil to deter fungus gnats. This reduces the spider’s food source.
How Often Should I Spray Peppermint Oil?
Spray every 3 to 4 days until spiders are gone. Then once a week for prevention. Reapply after watering or rain. Test on one leaf first to avoid damage.
Final Thoughts On Spider Control
Getting rid of spiders in plants is not hard. You just need to remove their food and shelter. Start with manual removal, then adjust your watering routine. Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth. Keep your plant area clean and dry.
Remember, spiders are not evil. They eat other pests. If you can tolerate one or two, let them stay. But if they bother you, these methods will work. Be consistent. Check your plants weekly. In a few weeks, your plants will be spider-free and healthy.
You do not need harsh chemicals. A little patience and routine care will keep spiders away. Your houseplants will thank you with greener leaves and fewer webs.