Help prevent mite infestations by increasing humidity, isolating plants and using soapy water

What’s the problem?
I’ve noticed tiny webs and bugs on my orchid. Are these spiders, and will they harm my plant?

Diagnosis
Those tiny webs and minuscule bugs you’ve spotted on your plants sound like spider mites. These aren’t spiders but microscopic arachnids that thrive in dry, warm conditions, so you’ll notice they appear during summer heatwaves or winter months when central heating reduces humidity. They feed on plant sap, weakening the plant’s structure, which leads to yellowing leaves, discoloration and eventually leaf drop. They can multiply rapidly, posing a risk to your plant’s long-term health.