Tropicals & Tender Perennials: A few questions, 1 by Shelly221

Shelly221 wrote:
I have some cuttings of plumies, and also I started some from seed, I got lucky, and all germinated. My questions are...
I have the cuttings, and the larger seedlings in cactus soil... is this ok?
My cuttings are doing NOTHING as far as growing leaves. I did get brave and check, and seems they are all rooted. They have been in the dirt since July of last year, and there is no growth. Any ideas?
My seedlings get leaves, but as soon as there are 3-4 leaves, the spidermites attack. I rinse them with pretty warm water, and a mix of tea tree oil, liquid soap, neem oil, and water. They seem to attack them pretty fast. One day I will see the leaves nice, green and shiney, and the next they are silvery, and webby.
I have them in a south facing window, and the room during the day never is below 80, and 70 at night.
Any help would be appreciated!