Red Insects on a Gardenia Plant

An evergreen shrub, the gardenia (Gardenia augusta) can grow to a height of up to 6 feet. Spider mites, especially the reddish orange twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) often plague the shrub, according to North Carolina State University.

Lifespan

• The twospotted spider mite occurs on gardenia shrubs in temperate and subtropical regions. The adults spin a fine webbing where they lay their eggs, the eggs hatch and the larvae emerge. The larvae molt twice through nymph stages before emerging as adults. The entire lifespan occurs over the course of 20 days.

Effects

• The spider mite feeds on the gardenia by piercing its tissue with its sharp mouth and sucking the shrub's sap. They congregate on the underside of the gardenia's leaves in a reddish mass. The mite causes the leaves to turn yellow, dry out and fall from the plant. The blossoms may become distorted.

Prevention/Solution

• Consider purchasing and releasing ladybugs, a natural spider mite predator, onto the gardenia shrub for a natural control option. Washing the shrub with a powerful burst of water every few days will also help control the pest. Insecticidal soaps and powders are also available.