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How to Get Rid of Thrips in Combo Plant

Updated: October 8, 2022

Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can cause a lot of damage to your combo plants. They feed on the leaves and flowers of your plants, causing them to turn brown, curl up, and fall off. If you have noticed the signs of thrips infestation in your combo plant, it’s important to act fast before they cause any more damage. Here are some steps you can take to get rid of thrips in your combo plant.

Step 1: Identify the Signs of Thrips Infestation

Before you can get rid of thrips, you need to make sure that you are dealing with an infestation. Here are some signs that your combo plant may be infested with thrips:

  • Brown spots on the leaves
  • Curling or distorted leaves
  • Sticky residue on the leaves
  • Silver streaks on the leaves

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.

Step 2: Isolate the Infected Plant

Thrips can easily spread from one plant to another, so it’s important to isolate the infected plant as soon as possible. Move it away from other plants and keep a close eye on it.

Step 3: Remove Infected Leaves

Thrips love to hide in the folds and crevices of leaves, so it’s important to remove any infected leaves as soon as possible. Use scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut off any infected leaves.

Step 4: Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to get rid of thrips in your combo plant. Mix one tablespoon of insecticidal soap with one gallon of water and spray the entire plant, making sure to cover both the top and bottom of the leaves. Repeat this process every seven days until the thrips are gone.

Step 5: Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps are another effective way to get rid of thrips in your combo plant. Hang them near the infected plant and they will attract and trap the thrips.

Step 6: Keep Your Plants Healthy

Healthy plants are less likely to be attacked by thrips, so it’s important to keep your combo plants healthy. Make sure they are getting enough water, sunlight, and nutrients. Regularly prune and trim them to remove any dead or dying leaves.

FAQ

How can I prevent thrips from infesting my combo plants in the first place?

Thrips are attracted to weak and stressed plants, so it’s important to keep your combo plants healthy. Make sure they are getting enough water, sunlight, and nutrients. Regularly prune and trim them to remove any dead or dying leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap as a preventative measure.

Can thrips infest other plants in my garden?

Yes, thrips can easily spread from one plant to another, so it’s important to isolate any infected plants as soon as possible.

Are insecticidal soaps safe for my plants?

Yes, insecticidal soaps are safe for most plants. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and not to use too much.

Can I use neem oil to get rid of thrips?

Yes, neem oil is an effective way to get rid of thrips in your combo plant. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one gallon of water and spray the entire plant, making sure to cover both the top and bottom of the leaves. Repeat this process every seven days until the thrips are gone.