PlantPal

Silvery streaks: check for thrips

Look for narrow moving insects and tiny black specks on new leaves or in flowers.

Thrips feeding damage on mango leaves.
Thrips feeding damage on mango leaves. Photo: Scot Nelson · CC0 · Resized and converted for display.

What to check first

Unfold a damaged young leaf gently or tap a flower over white paper. Silvery scarring, small black droppings and slender moving insects together are better clues than silver marks alone.

What to do now

Separate the plant and inspect its neighbors. Rinse foliage that tolerates washing. Sticky cards can help detect flying adults, but they do not reach insects hidden in leaves or flowers.

What to watch next

Watch the newest leaves for fresh streaks or distortion. If damage continues, confirm the pest before choosing a treatment for that plant.

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