Insects & Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests, but the damage they cause can become very noticeable on trees and shrubs. Browning foliage, stippling, and overall decline—especially on evergreens—may point to mite activity.
ISA Certified Arborists
Trained, credentialed experts
Southeast Michigan
Specialists who know local trees
Dedicated Tree Specialists
Not a lawn care add-on
Professional Consultations
Custom care plan, no pressure
On this page
What is it?
Signs & symptoms
What causes it
Trees affected
When to act
How we help
Prevention tips
FAQs
Spotted these symptoms?
An ISA Certified Arborist can confirm what's going on with your tree.
or call 248.378.1111
Overview
What are Spider Mites?
Spider mites are very small sap-feeding pests that damage foliage by piercing plant tissue and removing plant juices. They are not insects, but they create many of the same visible problems homeowners associate with insect pressure. Because they are so small, people often notice the plant symptoms before they notice the mites themselves.
When you'll see it in Michigan
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Overview
Common signs & symptoms
Check each one you're seeing on your tree — your match strength updates below.
Root Cause
What Causes Spider Mite Problems?
Spider mites become more noticeable when weather conditions, plant stress, and population growth line up in their favor. Dry conditions and stressed landscape plants can contribute to outbreaks. Because their feeding damage can resemble other issues, it is important to confirm that mites are actually present before choosing a treatment plan.
Plants at Risk
Trees & Shrubs Commonly Affected
Spider mites are frequently seen on arborvitae, spruce, juniper, boxwood, and other ornamental trees and shrubs. Different mite species may show up at different times of the year, which is one reason proper timing matters.
Spruce
Red Flags
When Should You Act?
If foliage is lightly affected and the plant is otherwise healthy, close monitoring may be enough at first. But if discoloration is spreading, webbing is present, or the plant is clearly losing vigor, it is wise to schedule an evaluation. Repeated or heavy infestations can create more lasting decline.
Low/Moderate
Our Approach
How My Arborist helps
My Arborist evaluates whether spider mites are likely causing the symptoms and recommends the right next step based on the plant species, severity, and season. Solutions may include targeted treatment, monitoring, and care recommendations to reduce stress and improve overall plant health.
01
Disease evaluation
Confirm the diagnosis before treating
02
Targeted disease control
Timed fungicide applications when warranted
03
Monitoring
Stop future outbreaks
Stay Ahead
Prevention tips
Watch susceptible evergreens and ornamentals for early discoloration
Reduce plant stress during extended dry periods
Avoid assuming every browning issue is disease-related
Address infestations before foliage loss becomes widespread
Follow seasonal timing recommendations when treatment is needed
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
What do spider mites look like?
They are extremely small and often hard to see without close inspection, but their feeding damage and fine webbing can be easier to notice.
Do spider mites kill trees and shrubs?
Light infestations may be mostly cosmetic, but repeated or heavy pressure can weaken plants over time.
Why is my arborvitae turning brown if I have spider mites?
Spider mite feeding removes plant juices, which can lead to stippling, bronzing, and browning foliage.
When are spider mites most active?
That depends on the mite species. Some are more active in cooler parts of the growing season, while others increase during warmer weather.
Should I treat as soon as I see browning?
Not automatically. Browning can have several causes, so it is best to confirm the issue before treating.
Keep Exploring
Related insect & pest problems
Aphids
Small, soft-bodied insects
Bagworms
Destructive caterpillar pests
Emerald Ash Borer
Wood-boring insect
CONSULTATION
Seeing bronzing, browning, or stippling on evergreens or shrubs?
My Arborist can determine whether spider mites are the issue and recommend the right next step for treatment and plant health.
ISA Certified Arborists
Each visit is handled by credentialed professionals
No-Pressure Consultation
Professional assessment, custom plan, honest recommendations
Serving SE Michigan
Plymouth, Northville, Birmingham, Novi & more
Contact us below
or give us a call at 248-378-1111