Thrips are one of the more difficult-to-detect pests for gardeners because the damage they cause often appears to be the result of a nutrient deficiency or a disease rather than an insect infestation. There are more than 6,000 thrips species sucking the life from plants all over the world.
Thrips are tiny insects about the size of a sewing needle that feed on a variety of plants. Thrips, also known as thysanoptera or thunderflies, are sucking insects that can cause damage to plants.
The life cycle depends on the species of thrips as well as the location, host plant, and other factors. Adults and pupae overwinter in garden soil. In spring, newly emerged females insert eggs into the tissues of flowers, leaves or stems.
Adult thrips are 1/50 to 1/25 inches long and slender. They may be yellow, brown, or even black, and if you approach them too closely, they will probably leap or fly away. Their wings are narrow and fringed.
Extremely active, thrips feed in large groups. They leap or fly away when disturbed. Host plants include onions, beans, carrots, squash and many other garden vegetables, and many flowers, especially gladioli and roses.
Thrips Control: How to Get Rid of Thrips Effectively
Extremely active, thrips feed in large groups. They leap or fly away when disturbed. Host plants include onions, beans, carrots, squash and many other garden vegetables, and many flowers, especially gladioli and roses.