Question

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Followup To I would like info on chemical and organic solutions.  And to clarify the clorox preparation.  If I understand correctly, I cut leaves off and dip them in a 20% clorox water? mixture and then bury them in the soil?  Will this elminate them completely?  I already pulled bugs off the leaves and cut all the affected leaves and blooms off.  Thanks so much for your help.


Question -
I have a "Sonja" Purple 04 African Violet that seems to have small beige bugs on the leaves.  The leaves and some of the blooms seem to have  parts of them that are "eaten" destroyed.  One stem with blooms on it has fallen over and the leaves have cracks and small holes.  I want to save this planr, but do not know what to do.  So far the bugs have not moved to my second violet, but I am sure they will if not stopped soon.  Do you know of a natural way to get rid of these little pests?  Any suggestion would be appreciated.



Answer -
You are looking at a thrip.  They are one of the hardest critters to get rid of but it can be done.  If you don't want to fight them take off a couple of leaves dip them in a 20% bleach solution for a few seconds and set them in soil to make babies.

First keep the plant from blooming.  Thrips feed on pollen...if they don't have food they will starve.

Next, do you want a chemical or organic solution?

Happy Growing!
Kristina

Answer
Yes you got it.

Next you can use what is called Marathon granduals it is a systemic insecticide.  It is hard to get for private growers.  Do an internet search and you should be able to come up with several options.  Only a very small amount is needed.

Also there is a liquid you can use as well and it is easier to get.  Kelthane...you should be able to get it locally.  Just follow the directions and keep the plant from blooming for one to 2 months.

Happy growing
Kristina