Question
Hi Will,  We have a fica tree about 8 feet tall. We brought it home a few months ago and it has not been doing well- dropping leaves, sparse. Upon inspection, we noticed that some leaves looked like pea pods- crumpled up. When we opened one we found very tiny white bugs and slightly larger black bugs- still very small.  It looks like all the baby leaves are becoming infested. We tried to pick out the infested leaves.  And we sprayed it with soap water.  We really like our plant. Please Help.
Thanks.
Katharine and Cooper

Answer
Hi Katharine,

Ficus trees, most of which are grown in Florida, are experiencing a major infestation of thrips. Quality growers treat their trees so that this is not a problem. Big box stores often do not purchase their trees from quality growers.

Thrips have been around for a long time, but this recent infestation of Ficus trees is unusual.

I suggest you start your treatment by removing as many of the infested leaves and stems as possible. Because most of the thrips are in new growth and new growth is always at the ends of stems, simply trimming off the last several inches of all stems will probably remove most of the critters.

If you don't mind using pesticides, Malathion is effective in treating thrips. Alternatively, you can use a fine horticultural oil spray. With both products, it is important to spray in a well ventilated area and to get complete coverage of all leaf and stem surfaces.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC