Thrips are a common pest that can infest many different types of plants, including monstera. While they are not typically harmful to humans, they can cause extensive damage to plants. Thrips feed on the sap of plants, which can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. If you have noticed small black or brown bugs on your monstera, chances are good that you have a thrips infestation.
In this article, we will discuss how to remove thrips from monstera. We will cover both chemical and non-chemical methods of control. Let’s get started!
Can Monstera Plants Get Thrips?
Yes, it’s true that thrips can infest monstera plants. In fact, thrips are known to infest a wide variety of plants, both indoors and outdoors. If you have noticed tiny black or brown bugs on your monstera, it’s likely that you have a thrips infestation.
These pests can show up seemingly out of nowhere and quickly multiply, causing extensive damage to your plant. Thrips feed on the sap of plants, which can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.
You may not have even realized that the thrips were present as they like to hide under leaves, in crevices, and in other tight spaces. Once they have infested your plant, they can be difficult to get rid of without taking specific action.
What Do Thrips Look Like?
Thrips are small insects that measure just a millimeter or two in length. They are typically black or brown in color but can also be yellow, white, or even translucent. One of the best ways to identify thrips is by their long, slender bodies. If you take a close look at thrips, you will also notice that they have two pairs of wings that are fringed with long hairs.
While they are small, don’t be fooled – these pests can cause a lot of damage to your plants. If you have noticed thrips on your monstera, it’s important to take action immediately in order to prevent further damage.
How Do I Know if My Monstera Has Thrips?
There are a number of telltale signs that your monstera has thrips. Let’s go through some of the most common ones:
Yellow or Brown Discoloration
Now, leaf discoloration can be caused by a number of different factors, so it’s not always a surefire sign that your plant has thrips. However, if you notice yellow or brown spots on the leaves of your monstera, it’s worth taking a closer look.
These discolorations are caused by the thrips feeding on the sap of the plant, and they are typically found in the center of the leaves, rather than on the edge.
Black Spots
Thrips tunnel into the leaves of plants to lay eggs, and this can cause small black spots on the surface of the leaves. These spots are typically found around the egg-laying sites, and they can be a good indicator that your plant has thrips.
Curling or Distorted Leaves
Thrips feeding can also cause leaves to curl or distort. This is because the sap that the thrips are feeding on is essential for the plant to grow properly. When this sap is removed, it can cause the leaves to become distorted.
How To Get Rid of Thrips on a Monstera?
It’s important to take action as soon as you notice thrips on your monstera. These pests can quickly multiply and cause extensive damage to your plant. In this section, we will discuss both chemical and non-chemical methods of control.
1. Wash with Soapy Water
The first step in getting rid of thrips is to wash your plant with soapy water. This will help to remove any adult thrips that are present on the surface of the plant.
To do this, mix together a solution of dish soap and water. Be sure to use a mild soap as anything too harsh can damage the leaves of your plant. Gently spray the leaves of your plant with the soapy water, being sure to reach all sides.
Let the plant sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with clean water. You may need to repeat this process a few times to completely get rid of all the thrips.
Washing your plant with soapy water is a great way to remove adult thrips, but it won’t do anything to get rid of the eggs. For that, you will need to take additional steps.
2. Neem Oil
Using neem oil (Amazon link) is a great way to get rid of thrips and eggs on your monstera. This oil is made from the seeds of the neem tree and it works by disrupting the life cycle of the thrips.
Simply mix together a solution of neem oil and water according to the instructions on the bottle. Once you have your mixture, gently spray it onto the leaves of your plant. Be sure to reach all sides, including the underside of the leaves.
Keep applying the neem oil every few days until you no longer see any thrips on your plant. This could take a week or two. In addition to being an effective way to get rid of thrips, neem oil is also safe for humans and animals. This makes it a great choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly option.
3. Using Predators to Get Rid of Thrips from Monstera
If you are looking for a more natural way to get rid of thrips, you can try using predators. There are a number of different insects that feed on thrips, so releasing them into your garden can help to reduce the population.
One predator that is particularly effective against thrips is the Amblyseius predatory mite. These tiny mites feed on the eggs and larvae of thrips, which can help to reduce the population. You can purchase these mites online or at a garden center.
How to Prevent Thrips on Monstera Plants?
Prevention is always the best method when it comes to pests. There are a few things you can do to help prevent thrips from infesting your monstera plants.
One of the best things you can do is to keep your garden clean. Thrips are attracted to areas that are cluttered and overgrown, so keeping your garden tidy can help to deter them. In addition, be sure to promptly remove any dead leaves or flowers from your plants.
It’s also a good idea to inspect your plants regularly for signs of thrips. If you notice any early on, you can take steps to remove them before they have a chance to multiply. You could even apply the neem oil preventatively, just to be on the safe side. This is particularly effective during the spring and summer when thrips are most active.
Finally, make sure your monstera is healthy. A strong plant is more likely to withstand an infestation than a weak one. Be sure to give your plants plenty of water and fertilizer, and provide them with adequate light. By taking these steps, you can help to keep your plants healthy and reduce the risk of thrips.
Why Are Thrips a Problem for Monstera Plants?
Thrips are a problem for monstera plants because they can cause damage to the leaves. Thrips feed by puncturing the leaves of plants and sucking out the sap. This can cause the leaves to become discolored or distorted. In severe cases, it can even kill the plant.
The good news is that you will notice the monstera plant suffering before it’s too late. Simply apply the neem oil or another method to get rid of the thrips, and your plant should recover. However, if you don’t take action in time, the plant could die.
Conclusion
In conclusion, thrips are a problem for monstera plants because they can cause damage to the leaves. However, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them, such as using neem oil or releasing predators into your garden.
Prevention is always the best method, so be sure to keep your area clean and inspect your plants regularly. By taking these steps, you can help to keep your plants healthy and reduce the risk of thrips.
Tim is an avid gardener from the UK. He was the founder of PlantCarer.com from 2021 to Sep 2023. He sold PlantCarer.com to Aaron. He has since started his own business called Seed To Supper, which provides new gardeners all the materials you need in a box (pots, seeds, compost and instructions) to grow your own delicious and nutritious vegetables and herbs from start to finish – no garden required.
