Thrips are tiny, slender insects that scrape and suck sap from leaves, often leaving silvery streaks or black specks behind. They move quickly and can be hard to spot, but nearly every plant owner runs into them at some point. The good news is they are very treatable with consistent care, and your plants can recover well once the population is under control.
1. Inspect and Isolate
Check for silvery streaks, black dots, or tiny moving insects on leaves. Move infested plants away from others.
2. Rinse and Wipe
Spray plants with water or gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove thrips and eggs.
3. Prune Damaged Parts
Remove and discard heavily infested or badly damaged leaves to reduce their hiding spots.
4. Soap or Neem Spray
Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to coat leaves (especially undersides). Repeat every 5–7 days.
5. Sticky Traps
Place blue or yellow sticky traps nearby to catch adult thrips and monitor activity.
6. Stay Consistent
Check weekly and reapply treatments. With patience, thrips numbers will drop and your plants will bounce back.