INSECT ID · SUCKING PEST
Thrips
Also called Thrip, flower thrips, western flower thrips
Tiny, slender insects that rasp the surface of leaves and flowers. The damage shows up as silvery streaks and blotchy blooms.
How to spot it
- Slender insects about 1/32 to 1/16 inch long with fringed wings
- Silvery streaks or patches on leaves that turn brown later
- Dark specks of waste on the leaves
- Blemished or twisted flowers and growing tips
- Tap a flower over white paper and watch for tiny moving specks
Why it shows up
Thrips go for growing tips, flower buds, and flowers. They feed on many plants, from annuals and perennials to shrubs and trees. They thrive in warm, dry weather. They can move in big numbers when nearby grass or weeds get mowed or cut, especially on windy days.
How we treat it
We will identify it on a visit and recommend the right fix. Cutting off badly damaged plant parts and giving plants room helps. If they keep coming back, we will talk through other options with you.
What you can do
- Tap a flower over white paper to see if thrips fall out.
- Cut off badly damaged flowers and growth.
- Do not crowd plants. Give them room.
WANT IT HANDLED?
Let a licensed applicator take it from here.
Tell us about your lawn. We’ll get back to you with a free quote.
Prefer to talk? 817-382-1722Licensed applicator, Texas Department of Agriculture · License #0984138