How to identify
- Silvery stippling or streaks on leaves
- Tiny black fecal dots
- Insects barely visible without a lens; they move quickly
Damage: Scarred fruit, distorted growth, and virus transmission in some crops.
Control methods
- Hose plants; remove heavily scarred leaves.
- Control weeds that host thrips between crops.
- Blue or yellow sticky cards for monitoring.
What products to use
We list product types and what to check on the label — not brand rankings, prices, or “we tested” claims. Always follow the label for your crop, and prefer the least disruptive option that works.
Spinosad or insecticidal soap (labeled)
When: Persistent scarring on onions or fruit
Look for: Thrips listed on the label for that crop; multiple applications often needed