How to Get Rid of Thrips in Cousin It Plant

Cousin It plant, also known as the hairy-leaved Kalanchoe or Kalanchoe tomentosa, is a popular houseplant known for its unique appearance. Its leaves are covered in fine hairs, which give it a fuzzy texture. However, like all plants, Cousin It is susceptible to pests. One of the most common pests that affect this plant is thrips. These tiny insects can cause serious damage to the plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of thrips in Cousin It plant.

What are Thrips?

Thrips are tiny insects that measure about 1-2 mm long. They have narrow bodies and two pairs of wings. Thrips can be different colors, including black, brown, or yellow. They are attracted to plants and feed on their juices by piercing the leaves and sucking out the sap. This can cause significant damage to the plant.

Symptoms of Thrips Infestation

The first sign of a thrips infestation in Cousin It plant is the appearance of small, silver or brown streaks on the leaves. The leaves may also become distorted or discolored. If left untreated, thrips can cause the leaves to fall off and stunt the growth of the plant.

How to Get Rid of Thrips in Cousin It Plant

Step 1: Identify the Infestation

The first step in getting rid of thrips in Cousin It plant is to identify the infestation. Check the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects, eggs, or larvae. You may also see small black dots on the leaves, which are thrips feces.

Step 2: Isolate the Infected Plant

Once you have identified the infestation, isolate the infected plant from other plants to prevent the thrips from spreading.

Step 3: Remove Damaged Leaves

Remove any damaged leaves from the plant and dispose of them in a sealed bag to prevent the thrips from spreading.

Step 4: Spray with Insecticidal Soap

Spray the plant with insecticidal soap, which is a natural, non-toxic way to get rid of thrips. Insecticidal soap works by suffocating the insects, so make sure to coat the entire plant, including the undersides of the leaves.

Step 5: Repeat Treatment

Repeat the treatment every seven to ten days until the thrips are completely gone. This will ensure that any new thrips that hatch from eggs are eliminated before they have a chance to infest the plant again.

Preventing Thrips Infestation

The best way to prevent thrips infestation in Cousin It plant is to keep the plant healthy and stress-free. Make sure to water it regularly and provide it with adequate light. You can also use yellow sticky traps to catch any adult thrips that may be flying around.

FAQ

Q. Can I use neem oil to get rid of thrips in Cousin It plant?

A. Yes, neem oil is an effective way to get rid of thrips in Cousin It plant. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one quart of water and spray the plant thoroughly.

Q. Can thrips spread to other plants?

A. Yes, thrips can spread to other plants if they are not isolated and treated promptly.

Q. Are thrips harmful to humans?

A. No, thrips are not harmful to humans. They are only harmful to plants.

Q. Can I use chemical insecticides to get rid of thrips in Cousin It plant?

A. Yes, you can use chemical insecticides, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use them only as a last resort. Chemical insecticides can be harmful to the plant and the environment.