Question
I am currently a plant tech for a company out of San Diego, Ca called Good Earth Plant and Flower company.  I was wondering what the best way to go about ridding this two story office building of thrip that has run rampant.  I just took over this account that is a new account take over from another company.  The first tech from our company just used "Merit", which I do like, but for health or cost reason he did not keep on a steady program.  I would like to maybe have some other options, such as alternate methods, other plant type that might not be supseptible to thrip and eviorment frienly treatments.  Right now i have only noticed it on the potho's which are jade variety and also on some grape ivy and I think some aggs.  Any input would be appriciated and shared with fellow employee's as well as some of the helpfull article's I found off of your website horticulturehelp.com.  Thanks again and am eager for your advice and wisdom,  BigMike10s

Answer
Hi Mike,

Fortunately, thrips are a rare problem on my many accounts.

First, I think you should look to discard any infested plants that are in questionable condition. Then, prune off as much infested plant material as possible, especially the pothos and grape ivies.

There are a variety of pesticides registered for use on thrips. Pyrethrum-based sprays are among the safest. I have had success with soap sprays, but only when I am very thorough and get complete coverage of all leaf and stems surfaces. You should probably spray 3 times at 5 day intervals.

After the initial spraying, it is important to be unusually vigilant in watching for and treating the first signs of any return of the thrips. A scattershot approach to treatment is not effective. If you stay on top of this problem for a month or so, you should be able to eliminate it entirely.

Good luck and please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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