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How to Get Rid of Thrips in Copper Spoons Plant

Updated: June 4, 2022

Copper Spoons Plant, also known as Gynura aurantiaca, is a popular houseplant due to its unique and attractive foliage. One of the biggest problems that plant lovers face while growing this plant is thrips. Thrips are tiny insects that can damage the leaves and flowers of your Copper Spoons Plant, making it look unhealthy and unattractive. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of thrips in Copper Spoons Plant.

Identifying Thrips in Copper Spoons Plant

Before we begin discussing how to get rid of thrips, it is important to know how to identify them. Thrips are tiny insects that are less than 2mm in length. They are usually yellowish-brown or black in color and have long, narrow wings. Thrips feed on the sap of your Copper Spoons Plant leaves and flowers, which causes them to turn brown or silver.

Steps to Get Rid of Thrips in Copper Spoons Plant

Step 1: Isolate the Infected Plant

If you notice thrips on your Copper Spoons Plant, it is important to isolate it from other plants to avoid spreading the infestation. Move the infected plant away from other plants and make sure it is not touching any other plants.

Step 2: Prune Infected Leaves

Thrips usually attack new growth and tender leaves. Check your plant for any damaged or infected leaves and prune them off immediately. This will help prevent the spread of thrips.

Step 3: Spray with Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective treatment for thrips in Copper Spoons Plants. Mix one tablespoon of insecticidal soap with one liter of water and spray the entire plant, paying particular attention to the undersides of leaves where thrips tend to hide. Repeat this process every 4-7 days until the thrips are completely gone.

Step 4: Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps can also be used to catch thrips. These traps are yellow or blue in color and coated with a sticky substance that attracts and traps thrips. Hang the traps near your Copper Spoons Plant to catch any thrips that may be present.

Step 5: Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to get rid of thrips in Copper Spoons Plants. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray the entire plant, paying particular attention to the undersides of leaves where thrips tend to hide. Repeat this process every 7-10 days until the thrips are completely gone.

Preventing Thrips in Copper Spoons Plant

Prevention is the key to avoiding thrips in your Copper Spoons Plant. Here are some tips to prevent thrips:

  1. Keep your plant healthy by providing it with enough water, sunlight, and nutrients.
  2. Regularly clean your plant’s leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
  3. Quarantine new plants for at least two weeks to ensure they are not carrying any pests.
  4. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative measure every few weeks.

FAQ

Q. Are thrips harmful to humans?

A. No, thrips are not harmful to humans. They only feed on plants and do not transmit diseases.

Q. Can I use neem oil on my other plants?

A. Yes, neem oil is safe to use on most plants but make sure to read the label before using it.

Q. Can I use vinegar to get rid of thrips?

A. No, vinegar is not an effective treatment for thrips in Copper Spoons Plants. It can damage the plant’s leaves and roots.