Bugs on Indoor dwarf citrus trees

Question

I brought my two dwarf Meyer Lemon and one lime trees into my apartment for the winter in Denver. Today I noted the branch end of one lemon tree had a fine silvery gauze (web) draped over the tiny green lemon buds (fruit) and it was swarming w teensy black MOVING spots!!! I presume they are an insect infestation that will damage my three little citrus trees. I sprayed the infested branch with dish soap and water but can’t find a picture online that matches what I see. Can you help?
BTW I snapped these photos AFTER spraying the branch w soapy water.

Answer 1

Well, it is an infestation. It isn’t an insect, though. It is actually a mite, which is related to a spider. These little guys will completely destroy your trees if not dealt with. Once you see webbing like that, you can consider the infestation severe.

I recommend use a mixture of garlic extract, rosemary oil, clove oil, and a little coconut oil mixed in warm water. This will kill of any living mites. You will have to spray the plants multiple times over a period of about a week.

If left unchecked This will completely destroy your plants very fast. And will spread to other plants in the area.

Answer 2

Thank you SO much for the prompt and helpful reply. Are you able to suggest a ‘recipe’ for this spray ‘remedy’? I’m leaving to buy the garlic extract (can’t just mince a clove?) and rosemary oil as I already have the other two components. Should it be a food grade essential oil (100% pure?) / more pricey?
Thank you very much – I’m spraying all three plants ASAP!!!