
This Week, on Plant Tip Tuesday...
We're talking about Thrips!
There’s a joke among horticulturists that they are called Thrips because you will never find just ONE Thrip! They are however one of the easier insects to eradicate if it is a mild infestation. If the infestation is bad you need to assess if it is worth treating or if you need to dispose of the plant.
Thrips are quite small so you will often see damage before you see the insect. Thrip damage will look like bleached or brown spots on the foliage. It can also show as distorted new growth, or an overall sad appearance. The insect can be found in all areas of the plant including the soil if it is a large infestation. However, they will often be on the undersides of the leaves.
Thrips are long and skinny, and can be various colours including black, yellow, brown, or white. It’s important to know that Thrips are quite active and can move to other plants.
If you choose to treat:
- Start by washing the plant with warm water.
- You will then want to do a light spraying of insecticidal soap.
- Use the insecticidal soap bi-weekly. On the week that you are not using it wash the plant with water.
- Adding Diatomaceous earth to the soil will help to treat any insects residing in there.
- It is important to be diligent when first treating to be sure you kill the multiple generations, as Thrips lay eggs in the plant tissue.