Thrip Infestation - advice appreciated

[SpiderPlantAddict]

Hi all, I have recently discovered that I have a very widespread thrip infestation, I have always known of these little pests and have lost many plants because of them but I could never find out what they were and so struggled to know how to fight them. Now I have done some research, figured out which type of thrip I am dealing with (Echinothrip Americanus - the black one) and now I am looking into the best ways of tackling them. I have seen that a mixed approach of some predatory insects plus some Spinosad can work but I am struggling to find any spinosad that is safe for use on indoor plants and wondering whether it would be better to just use insects or just use pesticide. Does anyone have any advice or particular products that they use which they have found beneficial, I live in the UK so may not be able to get all products from other countries. Any help is very much appreciated

 

[Anniekay]

Thrips thrive in dryness, so that gives you an idea of why they are attracted to your plants. Increase the humidity and don't let your plants get too dry.

To get rid of the thrips, take the plants outside and hose them off then spray with Safer soap. Watch for any more and keep up this routine of hosing then off and spraying with Safer soap.

 

[cpp gardener]

If you can get some imidacloprid it controls them. There are sprays, drenches and granules in various brands. It may be hard to get due to its toxicity to bees. Since you’re using it indoors that really isn’t a problem.

 

[River]

neem oil will kill the larvae and the eggs