Usually, seeing a spider’s web is enough to make us think about running in the opposite direction. So how can something that seems repulsive be associated with something as tranquil as a green plant? This article will explore the relationship between spiders and the color green, specifically how the color can attract these eight-legged creatures.
How do Spiders See?
Spiders’ eyes don’t function the same way as human eyes. They don’t have the capability to see color as we do. In short, they are basically colorblind.
However, being colorblind doesn’t mean they can’t see any colors. They are able to see some colors, just not as many as we can. In this case, spiders are dichromatic, meaning they can see two colors. The two colors that spiders can see are green and ultraviolet light, green being its favorite.
What Attracts Spiders?
So, what does this mean for spiders and the color green? The short answer is that yes, spiders are attracted to the color green. This is because it is the easiest color for them to see. In other words, green stands out more to spiders than any other color. This is probably one of the many reasons why you’ll often see spiders near green plants or on green lawns.
But that’s not the only reason why spiders are attracted to plants and lawns. Another reason is that they provide spiders with shelter and food. Spiders like to build their webs near plants because the leaves and branches give them somewhere to hide. While most spiders aren’t necessarily interested in eating plants, they will eat the insects that land on them.
With that being said, having spiders around your vegetation might indicate that there is a good amount of insect activity. While this might not be desirable for some, it can be beneficial in the sense that spiders are helping to keep the population of pests down.
What to Do to Keep Spiders Away From Your Plants/Lawn
Even if the spiders are actually beneficial to have around, that doesn’t mean you want them in your yard or garden. If you’re someone who would rather not have spiders near your green plants or lawn, there are a few things you can do to deter them. These are some of the most effective ways to keep spiders away:
Trim Regularly
Trim your plants regularly. Spiders like to build their webs in places where there are lots of leaves and branches. If you trim your plants, it will make it harder for spiders to build their webs, and, as a result, they’ll be less likely to stay in your yard or garden.
Keep the Grass Short
Tall and dense grass means more insects, which in turn means more spiders. If you keep your grass short, it will make it harder for insects to hide, and, as a result, there will be fewer of them around. This will make your yard less attractive to spiders.
Use Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a natural spider repellent. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray it around your plants or lawn. The strong scent of the peppermint will keep spiders away as they don’t like the smell. Alternatively, you may also plant peppermint plants around your yard as a natural way to deter spiders.
Use Citrus Peels
Citrus peels also make an effective spider repellent. Just like with peppermint oil, mix citrus peels with water and spray them around your yard or garden. The citrus scent will deter spiders, and, as a bonus, it will also keep away other pests like ants and mosquitoes!
Use Insecticide
Before using insecticides, you may want to understand that not all spiders are harmful. Most of them are actually beneficial as they help to keep the population of insects down. However, if you still want to use insecticide, there are products available that specifically target spiders. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions before using any type of insecticide.
Does Green Attract Spiders: Final Thoughts
Being only able to see green and ultraviolet light, it’s no surprise that spiders are attracted to the color green. Not only is green the easiest color for them to see, but it also provides them with shelter and food.
You can do some things to keep spiders away from your green plants or lawn, such as trimming regularly and using natural repellents like peppermint oil and citrus peels. For the most part, as long as spiders don’t pose any significant threat, it’s best to leave them be as they can actually be beneficial in controlling the population of your garden pests.