Why does your Rhododendron oreotrephes have fine webbing? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The fine webbing is a classic hallmark of spider mite infestations, which thrive in the warm, dry conditions that alpine rhododendrons often experience during summer. These microscopic arachnids pierce plant cells to feed, causing stippling and eventual leaf drop.
While less common than spider mites, certain lace bugs can create silk-like structures and cause a characteristic 'dirty' appearance on the underside of Rhododendron leaves. This often accompanies heavy feeding patterns in high-altitude microclimates.
In alpine environments, intense winds can strip moisture from Rhododendron oreotrephes leaves, causing them to curl and potentially trapping debris or fungal hyphae that mimic a webbed appearance. This is often accompanied by brittle, necrotic leaf edges.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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