Why does your Rhododendron uvarifolium have fine webbing? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
These microscopic arachnids thrive in hot, dry conditions and feed on the undersides of the blueberry-leaved Rhododendron's foliage, creating characteristic fine silk webs. Their feeding punctures cell walls, leading to stippling or chlorotic spots on the leaves.
While less common than spider mites, certain mite species can cause silk-like webbing on rhododendron varieties during periods of environmental stress. This often results in leaf distortion or premature leaf drop in R. uvarifolium.
Extreme drought stress in R. uvarifolium can cause leaves to curl and die, which may inadvertently trap dust and debris in a way that mimics fine webbing. This is often accompanied by scorched leaf margins.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: