Thrips
Our analysis of 14 verified rescue cases across 10 plant species shows exactly what causes thrips and the most effective fixes.
Quick Summary
Thrips are tiny, slender insects that rasp leaf tissue and suck sap, causing silvery or translucent patches, black specks (frass), and stunted or distorted new growth. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and reproduce rapidly indoors. Thrips prefer dry conditions and can spread quickly to other plants.
Most Effective Solutions
- 1 Isolate infected plant immediately
- 2 Spray entire plant with strong water to dislodge thrips (outdoors or in shower)
- 3 Apply insecticidal soap or Captain Jacks Dead Bug Brew (spinosad) every 7-10 days for 3-4 cycles
Affected Plants
10 speciesmonstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa
pothos
Epipremnum aureum
calathea
Goeppertia spp.
snake plant
Dracaena trifasciata
alocasia
Alocasia spp.
zz plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
prayer plant
Maranta leuconeura
philodendron
Philodendron spp.
peace lily
Spathiphyllum wallisii
monstera adansonii
Monstera adansonii
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes thrips?
How do I fix it?
- Isolate infected plant immediately
- Spray entire plant with strong water to dislodge thrips (outdoors or in shower)
- Apply insecticidal soap or Captain Jacks Dead Bug Brew (spinosad) every 7-10 days for 3-4 cycles
Which plants are most affected?
Can it be prevented?
Which of the 7 Killers
is threatening your plants?
We analyzed 1,616 documented plant deaths to identify the 7 causes behind 78% of all losses. Answer 5 questions — we'll tell you exactly which ones apply to your setup.
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How do you decide when to water your plants?
Question 2 of 5
Where do most of your plants live?
Question 3 of 5
What's your home environment like?
Question 4 of 5
Have you lost a plant in the last 6 months?
Question 5 of 5
How often do you check your plants for pests?
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