A few weeks ago, I brought my potted basil indoors in hopes of keeping it alive during the wintertime. I noticed that some of the leaves have tiny black dots on them; is this damage something I can control/prevent, or is my plant doomed?

New leaves appear to be growing, but some of these small leaves also have the black dots. I have the plant in a south-east facing window.

Thanks for any ideas you might have!

Al

I spray the infested plant liberally, and then follow up a couple of weeks later to kill any mites that hatch in the interim. I'm careful to include the undersides of leaves, as well.

Spider mites love a dry environment, so I mist my plants at least once a day. The majority of what I grow indoors are either bulbs or orchids... and I'm not entirely certain what might prevent the mites on Basil.

As far as a more natural, organic way to rid plants of spider mites... a bath in the kitchen sink with a tepid spray of water might help a bit... but other than that, I can't help. I'm afraid I rely on my spray for mites.

Mites could certainly be present, as well, however.

Most of the plants I recently brought in are busy dropping leaves. The light intensity and humidity are just too different.