There are two main species that are commonly used for jade bonsai: Crassula ovata (jade/money tree) and Portulacaria afra (dwarf jade/elephant bush). These species have similar care requirements and can be trained into various bonsai styles. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of each species and provide care guidelines for growing a healthy and beautiful jade bonsai.
Key Takeaways:
- Crassula ovata has larger leaves and a thicker trunk, while Portulacaria afra has smaller leaves, making it more suitable for bonsai cultivation.
- With proper care, jade bonsai trees can thrive and make beautiful additions to any home garden.
Jade Bonsai Species
When it comes to bonsai cultivation, there are two main species of jade that are commonly used: Crassula ovata and Portulacaria afra. Both species belong to the Crassulaceae family and offer unique characteristics and care requirements for bonsai enthusiasts.
Crassula ovata (Jade/Money Tree)
Crassula ovata, also known as the jade or money tree, is a popular choice for bonsai cultivation. This species features larger leaves and a thicker trunk compared to the Portulacaria afra.
Native to the Capetown area of South Africa, Crassula ovata is a fleshy, evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. Its thick, glossy, deep green leaves give it a distinctive appearance, and it produces pink-tipped white flowers in the winter. With its low-maintenance requirements, Crassula ovata is suitable for bonsai training.
Portulacaria afra (Dwarf Jade/Elephant Bush)
Portulacaria afra, also known as the dwarf jade or elephant bush, is another commonly used species for bonsai cultivation. Unlike Crassula ovata, Portulacaria afra has smaller leaves, making it more suitable for bonsai styling. Native to dry regions of South Africa, Portulacaria afra is a fleshy, soft, woody small tree that can grow up to 3 meters tall.
Its leaves are thick, oval-shaped, and have a cross-opposite leaf pattern. It produces small white flowers if it has endured drought periods during the growing season. Portulacaria afra is often used as an indoor bonsai and thrives when provided with sufficient sunlight.
| Species | Common Name | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Crassula ovata | Jade/Money Tree | Larger leaves, thicker trunk, pink-tipped white flowers |
| Portulacaria afra | Dwarf Jade/Elephant Bush | Smaller leaves, fleshy and woody, cross-opposite leaf pattern, small white flowers |
Both Crassula ovata and Portulacaria afra offer unique characteristics and can be trained into various bonsai styles. Whether you prefer the larger leaves and thicker trunk of the jade tree or the smaller leaves and cross-opposite leaf pattern of the dwarf jade, both species provide beautiful options for your bonsai collection.
Characteristics of Crassula ovata (Jade/Money Tree)
Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade or money tree, is a fleshy, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Capetown area of South Africa. This stunning plant can reach a height of up to 6 meters, making it an impressive addition to any garden. The leaves of Crassula ovata are a thick, glossy, and deep green, giving the tree a lush and vibrant appearance.
During the winter, Crassula ovata produces delicate star-shaped flowers with pink-tipped white petals, adding a touch of elegance to its already striking aesthetic. The jade tree is also known for its thick and knobby light tan-colored trunk, which develops over time, adding character and uniqueness to the plant.
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Native Region | Height | Leaf Characteristics | Flower Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crassula ovata | Crassula ovata | Capetown, South Africa | Up to 6 meters | Thick, glossy, deep green leaves | Pink-tipped white flowers with a star shape |
The jade tree is known for its low-maintenance nature, making it an excellent choice for bonsai cultivation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bonsai enthusiast, Crassula ovata is sure to captivate you with its unique characteristics and beauty.
Characteristics of Portulacaria afra (Dwarf Jade/Elephant Bush)
Portulacaria afra, commonly known as the dwarf jade or elephant bush, is a small tree native to the dry regions of South Africa. It is a fleshy, soft, woody plant that can grow up to 3 meters tall. The leaves of Portulacaria afra are thick, oval-shaped, and feature a cross-opposite leaf pattern. This unique leaf arrangement adds to its aesthetic appeal.
During the growing season, Portulacaria afra may produce small white flowers if it has endured periods of drought. These delicate blooms add a touch of elegance to the overall appearance of the tree.
Additionally, the bark of younger plants is soft and green, gradually transitioning to reddish brown as they mature.
The dwarf jade or elephant bush is often cultivated as an indoor bonsai due to its adaptability. It can thrive in indoor environments as long as it receives sufficient sunlight. Its resiliency and ability to withstand drought make it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who prioritize low-maintenance plants.
| Scientific Name | Common Names | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Portulacaria afra | Dwarf Jade Elephant Bush |
|
Care Guidelines for Jade Bonsai
Proper care is essential for the health and vitality of your jade bonsai. Follow these guidelines to ensure its thriving growth:
1. Sunlight
Place your jade bonsai in a location that receives substantial sunlight. It is best to provide full sun if you are keeping it indoors. This will help promote healthy foliage and overall growth.
2. Watering
Water your jade bonsai sparsely, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It’s important to strike a balance and provide just the right amount of moisture.
3. Fertilization
Fertilize your jade bonsai once a month during the growing season. Choose a balanced liquid fertilizer and apply it according to the instructions on the packaging. Fertilizing will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
4. Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to shape your jade bonsai and encourage branching. Trim back shoots to 2 or 3 leaves in the spring or summer. Remove any heavy or unnecessary branches to maintain the desired shape.
5. Repotting and Soil
Repot your jade bonsai every other year in the spring using well-draining soil mix. Choose a mix that allows water to flow freely and prevents waterlogging. This will help promote healthy root development.
6. Propagation
Jade bonsai trees are easy to propagate using cuttings. Take stem or leaf cuttings during the summer months. Allow the cuttings to develop thick trunks before using them for bonsai training.
| Care Guidelines for Jade Bonsai | Summary |
|---|---|
| Sunlight | Place your jade bonsai in a location that receives substantial sunlight, preferably full sun indoors. |
| Watering | Water sparsely, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent root rot. |
| Fertilization | Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. |
| Pruning | Regularly prune to shape the bonsai and encourage branching. Trim back shoots to 2 or 3 leaves. |
| Repotting and Soil | Repot every other year in spring using well-draining soil mix to promote healthy root development. |
| Propagation | Easily propagate the jade bonsai using stem or leaf cuttings during the summer months. |
By following these care guidelines, you can ensure the longevity and beauty of your jade bonsai. Remember to monitor the health of your bonsai regularly and make adjustments to the care routine as needed.
Care Tips for Jade Bonsai
Growing a healthy jade bonsai requires proper care and attention. Here are some essential care tips to help you nurture your jade bonsai:
- Avoid overwatering: Jade trees have the ability to retain water in their leaves, making them less prone to underwatering. It’s important not to water them too frequently to prevent root rot.
- Monitor sunlight exposure: Jade bonsai trees thrive in substantial sunlight. Monitor the tree’s location and adjust accordingly to ensure it receives enough light to support healthy growth.
- Use well-draining soil mix: To prevent waterlogging and root rot, use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for bonsai cultivation. This will allow excess water to flow freely and promote healthy root development.
- Prune regularly: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape and encourage branching. Remove any dead, diseased, or overgrown branches to keep your jade bonsai looking neat and well-maintained.
- Monitor pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealy bugs, spider mites, and aphids. Take appropriate measures, such as using insecticides or natural remedies, to control and prevent these pests from damaging your bonsai.
Training Styles for Jade Bonsai
Jade bonsai trees offer a versatile canvas for creating unique bonsai styles. By employing various training techniques, you can shape your jade bonsai into stunning creations. Here are some popular bonsai styles for jade bonsai:
1. Informal Upright Style
The informal upright style is a classic choice for jade bonsai. This style aims to create a triangular tree shape with a slightly curved trunk. The main trunk grows upright, and the branches gradually decrease in size as they ascend towards the apex. The gentle curves in the trunk and branches add visual interest and create a sense of movement in the tree.
2. Slanting Style
The slanting style is characterized by a trunk that is angled at approximately 45 degrees. This creates a dynamic and eye-catching appearance. The branches are positioned to grow in the opposite direction of the lean, providing balance and harmony to the overall composition. The slanting style is ideal for expressing resilience and strength in your jade bonsai.
3. Root-Over-Rock Style
The root-over-rock style mimics the natural growth of a tree’s roots around a rock. It creates a captivating scene where the roots intertwine with the rock’s surface.
To achieve this style, carefully introduce the tree’s roots to a rock during the early stages of training. Over time, the roots will grow around the rock, creating an intricate and visually appealing structure.
Each bonsai style offers a unique aesthetic and can be achieved through careful training and pruning techniques. Experimenting with these styles allows you to unleash your creativity and create a one-of-a-kind jade bonsai masterpiece.
| Training Style | Description | Visual Representation |
|---|---|---|
| Informal Upright Style | Triangular tree shape with a slightly curved trunk | |
| Slanting Style | Trunk angled at approximately 45 degrees | |
| Root-Over-Rock Style | Roots grow around a rock |
Propagation of Jade Bonsai
To expand your collection of jade bonsai trees, propagation techniques come in handy. Jade bonsai trees can be easily propagated using cuttings, whether stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is during the summer months when the plants are actively growing.
When propagating jade bonsai, it is crucial to allow the cuttings to develop thick trunks. This is essential for bonsai training, as a thick trunk adds visual interest and creates the desired bonsai aesthetic.
There are various techniques you can employ to encourage root development in jade cuttings. One common method is to soak the lower tip of the cutting in water, changing the water every few days.
Another effective approach is to plant the cuttings in coarse soil, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
The rooting process typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the climate conditions. During this time, it is important to provide adequate moisture and maintain stable environmental conditions, preferably in a warm and humid environment.
For those who prefer not to propagate their own jade bonsai trees, pre-bonsai jade materials can be purchased. These materials provide an excellent starting point for practicing bonsai cultivation techniques and allow for more advanced training from an early stage.
Jade Bonsai Propagation Techniques:
- Take stem cuttings or leaf cuttings during the active growth period
- Allow cuttings to develop thick trunks for bonsai training
- Encourage root development through water soaking or planting in coarse soil
- Maintain stable environmental conditions for successful rooting
- Consider purchasing pre-bonsai jade materials for more advanced training
Jade Bonsai and Indoor/Outdoor Cultivation
Jade bonsai trees can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, depending on the local climate and conditions. Whether you choose to grow your jade bonsai tree indoors or outdoors, it is important to provide it with the suitable environment to thrive.
In temperate regions, jade bonsai trees can be successfully grown indoors as long as they receive a few hours of direct sunlight daily. Placing them in a south-facing window or near a sunny spot in your home is ideal. This will ensure that the tree receives the necessary sunlight for photosynthesis and growth.
Alternatively, in tropical and dry regions with sufficient sunlight, jade bonsai trees can be cultivated outdoors. Outdoor cultivation allows the tree to benefit from the natural sunlight and fresh air, allowing it to reach its full potential.
When growing jade bonsai trees outdoors, it is important to monitor the sunlight exposure and adjust accordingly. Ensure that the tree is not exposed to excessive direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours of the day, as this can cause leaf burn or dehydration.
Indoor cultivation of jade bonsai trees may require additional measures to supplement the sunlight. If your indoor space lacks sufficient natural light, you can use grow lights to provide the necessary light energy for photosynthesis. Position the grow lights at an appropriate distance from the tree, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Indoor Cultivation Tips:
- Place your jade bonsai tree in a south-facing window or a location that receives ample direct sunlight.
- Use grow lights to supplement sunlight if your indoor space has limited natural light.
- Monitor and adjust the amount of sunlight your jade bonsai receives to prevent leaf burn or dehydration.
Outdoor Cultivation Tips:
- Choose a suitable location for your jade bonsai tree, ensuring it receives the appropriate amount of sunlight.
- Protect the tree from extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds or frost, if necessary.
- Regularly monitor the sunlight exposure and adjust the tree’s position, if needed, to optimize growth.
By providing the right cultivation environment, whether indoors or outdoors, your jade bonsai tree can thrive and bring beauty to your surroundings.
Watering Guidelines for Jade Bonsai
Proper watering is essential for the health of jade bonsai trees. By following the watering guidelines, you can ensure that your jade bonsai thrives and remains a beautiful addition to your home garden.
1. Water sparingly
Jade bonsai trees should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It is important to strike a balance and provide just enough water to keep the roots hydrated without saturating the soil.
2. Consider climate conditions and tree health
The water needs of jade bonsai trees may vary depending on the climate conditions and the health of the tree. During hot and arid days, you may need to water the tree more frequently to prevent dehydration. On the other hand, if the tree is in good health and the weather is cool and humid, you may need to water less frequently.
3. Check soil moisture regularly
Regularly check the soil moisture to ensure it is not waterlogged or overly dry. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil to gauge its moisture level. If the soil feels damp, it is still adequately hydrated. If it feels dry, it is time to water the tree. Monitoring the soil moisture will help you determine the appropriate watering frequency.
4. Mist foliage or use a humidity tray
During hot and arid days, misting the foliage using a spray bottle can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, placing the jade bonsai on a humidity tray filled with water can create a humid microclimate around the tree, reducing the risk of dehydration. Remember to avoid misting excessively as it can lead to leaf spot diseases.
Following these watering guidelines will help you keep your jade bonsai properly hydrated and ensure its overall health and vitality.
| Watering Tips for Jade Bonsai |
|---|
| Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering |
| Consider the climate conditions and the health of the tree when determining watering frequency |
| Regularly check the soil moisture by sticking your finger an inch into the soil |
| Mist the foliage or use a humidity tray to maintain moisture during hot, arid days |
Fertilizing Jade Bonsai
Jade bonsai trees require regular fertilizing to ensure healthy growth and development. Fertilizing provides the necessary nutrients for the tree to thrive and maintain its overall health. Follow these fertilizing guidelines to keep your jade bonsai nourished:
- Select the right fertilizer: Any normal fertilizer can be used for jade bonsai. Choose a well-balanced fertilizer that contains essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Read the product packaging to determine the appropriate application rate.
- Choose the application method: Fertilizers for jade bonsai are available in different forms, such as slow-release pellets or liquid concentrates. Choose the application method that suits your preference and follow the instructions provided.
- Apply once a month: Fertilize your jade bonsai once a month during the growth season, typically from spring to autumn. This ensures a steady supply of nutrients for optimal growth.
- Follow recommended rates: It is important to apply the fertilizer at the recommended rates. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn and damage the roots. Carefully measure the amount of fertilizer according to the instructions.
Fertilizing your jade bonsai on a regular basis will promote vigorous growth and help maintain its overall health. Remember to adjust the watering routine to prevent excessive accumulation of nutrients in the soil. By providing proper nourishment, your jade bonsai will thrive and reward you with its lush foliage and stunning appearance.
| Fertilizing Guidelines for Jade Bonsai |
|---|
| Select the right fertilizer |
| Choose a well-balanced fertilizer with essential nutrients. |
| Choose the application method |
| Select between slow-release pellets or liquid concentrates. |
| Apply once a month |
| Fertilize your jade bonsai once a month during the growing season. |
| Follow recommended rates |
| Ensure you apply the fertilizer at the recommended rates. |
Pruning and Wiring Jade Bonsai
Regular pruning is essential for shaping your jade bonsai tree and encouraging branching. Pruning should be done during the spring or summer seasons, cutting back shoots to 2 or 3 leaves. For heavy and unnecessary branches, it is recommended to make the cut right above the node. Avoid using cut paste as it can cause rotting of the tree.
Wiring is another technique that can be used to shape the branches of your jade bonsai tree. However, caution should be exercised as the bark of jade trees is soft and prone to wire cuts. For wiring, it is recommended to use aluminum wire as it is more flexible than copper and less likely to damage the branches.
After wiring, it is crucial to closely monitor the tree to prevent wire cuts and adjust the wiring as needed. This will help ensure that the branches grow in the desired direction and shape, creating a beautiful aesthetic for your jade bonsai.
| Pruning Techniques | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cutting back shoots to 2 or 3 leaves | Encourages branching and promotes compact growth |
| Removing heavy and unnecessary branches | Improves overall tree structure and aesthetics |
| Wiring Techniques | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Using aluminum wire | Allows flexibility for shaping branches without damaging the bark |
| Monitoring and adjusting the wiring | Prevents wire cuts and ensures proper branch positioning |
Repotting Jade Bonsai
Jade bonsai trees require repotting every other year in the spring to ensure their health and promote healthy root development. Repotting is an important process that involves refreshing the soil and maintaining the roots’ well-being. Follow these repotting guidelines for your jade bonsai:
- Choose a well-draining soil mixture specifically designed for bonsai trees. This will prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Gently remove the tree from its current pot, taking care not to disturb the root system excessively. Prune any damaged or excessively long roots.
- Place a layer of fresh soil at the bottom of the new pot. Position the jade bonsai in the center, making sure it is at the same depth as before.
- Fill the remaining space in the pot with the soil mixture, ensuring that it is evenly distributed around the roots.
- Press down the soil gently to eliminate any air pockets. Avoid compacting it too tightly, as this can hinder water drainage.
- Water your newly repotted jade bonsai sparingly for about a week after repotting. This allows the cut or damaged roots to dry and callous, reducing the risk of root rot.
Regular repotting of your jade bonsai will promote optimal root health and overall growth. It also gives you an opportunity to inspect the root system and address any issues that may arise.
| Repotting Frequency | Spring |
|---|---|
| Soil Mixture | Well-draining bonsai soil mixture |
| Root Pruning | Trim damaged or excessively long roots |
| Pot Positioning | Center the bonsai tree, ensuring the same depth as before |
| Soil Filling | Fill the pot with soil, evenly distribute it around the roots |
| Watering | Sparingly, allow the roots to dry and callous |
Pests and Diseases of Jade Bonsai
Jade bonsai trees are generally resilient and not prone to many pests and diseases if cared for properly. However, it’s important to be vigilant and address any common issues that may arise to keep your jade bonsai healthy and thriving.
Common Issues
There are a few pests and diseases that jade bonsai trees may encounter. These include:
- Mealy Bugs
- Spider Mites
- Aphids
If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s crucial to take immediate and appropriate measures to control these pests and prevent further damage.
Treatment Options
Here are some recommended treatment options for common pests:
| Pest | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Mealy Bugs | Wipe infected areas with rubbing alcohol |
| Spider Mites | Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap |
| Aphids | Apply insecticides |
It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the treatment products and take appropriate safety precautions.
Preventive Measures
Regular monitoring of your jade bonsai’s health is essential to catch any issues early. Along with treatment, it’s important to implement preventive measures to maintain the overall health of your tree. Some preventive measures include:
- Maintaining proper care practices
- Ensuring good hygiene
By maintaining a healthy environment and keeping up with regular care routines, you can minimize the risk of pests and diseases affecting your jade bonsai.
Conclusion
Jade bonsai trees are a beautiful and captivating addition to any home garden. Their unique appearance and low maintenance requirements make them an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts, especially for beginners. By following the carefully curated care guidelines and training techniques outlined in this article, you can successfully cultivate and nurture a healthy and thriving jade bonsai.
Whether you opt for the Crassula ovata or Portulacaria afra species, both possess the potential to be shaped into stunning bonsai trees that bring tranquility and aesthetic appeal to your living space. Embrace the journey of cultivating and caring for your jade bonsai, and relish in the joy of witnessing its growth and transformation over time.
Remember to provide your jade bonsai with ample sunlight, proper watering, regular pruning, and mindful fertilization. Additionally, choose an appropriate bonsai style that showcases the unique characteristics of your tree. By doing so, you will create a harmonious and visually captivating bonsai specimen that will bring you years of enjoyment.
FAQ
What species of jade is best for bonsai?
The two main species of jade commonly used for bonsai are the Crassula ovata (jade/money tree) and the Portulacaria afra (dwarf jade/elephant bush). Both species have similar care requirements and can be trained into various bonsai styles.
What are the care guidelines for jade bonsai?
Jade bonsai trees require substantial sunlight, preferably full sun if kept indoors. They should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Fertilize the jade bonsai once a month during the growing season. Regular pruning is necessary to shape the tree and encourage branching. Repotting should be done every other year in spring using a well-draining soil mix. Jade bonsai trees are easy to propagate using cuttings.
What are the characteristics of Crassula ovata (jade/money tree)?
Crassula ovata is a fleshy, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Capetown area of South Africa. It has thick, glossy, deep green leaves and produces pink-tipped white flowers in the winter. The jade tree has a thick, knobby, light tan-colored trunk that develops over time. It is a low-maintenance plant and is suitable for bonsai cultivation.
What are the characteristics of Portulacaria afra (dwarf jade/elephant bush)?
Portulacaria afra is a fleshy, soft, woody small tree native to dry regions of South Africa. It has thick, oval-shaped leaves with a cross-opposite leaf pattern. It produces small white flowers if it has endured drought periods during the growing season. The bark of younger plants is soft and green, changing to reddish brown with age. It is often used as an indoor bonsai and can thrive indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight.
What are some care tips for growing a healthy jade bonsai?
Some care tips for growing a healthy jade bonsai include avoiding overwatering, monitoring the sunlight exposure, using a well-draining soil mix, regular pruning, and monitoring for pests and diseases.
What are some training styles for jade bonsai?
Some popular training styles for jade bonsai include the informal upright style, slanting style, and root-over-rock style. Each style offers a unique aesthetic and can be achieved through proper training and pruning techniques.
How can jade bonsai be propagated?
Jade bonsai trees can be propagated using cuttings. Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings can be taken during the summer months. Different techniques can be used to develop roots on jade cuttings, such as soaking the lower tip in water or planting them in coarse soil. Pre-bonsai jade materials can also be purchased for those who want to practice bonsai cultivation techniques.
Can jade bonsai be grown indoors and outdoors?
Jade bonsai trees can be grown both indoors and outdoors. In temperate regions, they can be grown indoors as long as they receive a few hours of direct sunlight daily. In tropical, dry regions with sufficient sunlight, jade bonsai can be grown outdoors to allow them to reach their full potential.
What are the watering guidelines for jade bonsai?
Jade bonsai trees should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. The water needs may vary depending on the climate conditions and the health of the tree. Misting the foliage or using a humidity tray can help maintain moisture during hot, arid days. Regularly check the soil moisture to ensure it is not waterlogged or too dry.
How should jade bonsai be fertilized?
Jade bonsai trees should be fertilized once a month during the growth season using any normal fertilizer. Slow-release pellet fertilizers or liquid concentrates can be applied following the instructions on the product packaging. Regular fertilizing promotes vigorous growth and overall health of the jade bonsai.
How should jade bonsai be pruned and wired?
Regular pruning is necessary to shape the jade bonsai and encourage branching. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer, cutting back shoots to 2 or 3 leaves. Wiring can be done to shape the branches, using caution as the bark of jade trees is soft. Aluminum wire is recommended for wiring as it is more flexible than copper.
When should jade bonsai be repotted?
Jade bonsai trees should be repotted every other year in the spring. Repotting should be done carefully to avoid disturbing the root system. Use a well-draining soil mixture and avoid watering the soil for about a week after repotting to allow the cut or damaged roots to dry and callous.
What are some common pests and diseases of jade bonsai?
Some common pests and diseases that may affect jade bonsai include mealy bugs, spider mites, and aphids. Treatment options include wiping infected areas with rubbing alcohol for mealy bugs, applying insecticides for aphids, and using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap for spider mites.
