Thrips, are one of the most common and problematic pests that can affect cannabis crops, especially in indoor and greenhouse grows. These tiny insects feed on plant sap and can cause serious damage.
Thrips in indoor
In indoor cultivation, Thrips, althought not very aggressive, are very persistent. The first symptoms you might notice are small whitish or silvery spots measuring between 1-2 millimeters on the leaves. These are the holes the Thrips make when they suck and, at the same time, where they lay their eggs. This is similar to what happens with red spiders.
Although it is not an extremely aggressive pest and the plant is unlikely to die, under the right conditions (temperatures between 24º and 28º C and medium humidity), it could significantly reduce production. The spots generated accumulate, and eventually the leaf discolors and takes on a sickly, silvery appearance, with tiny dark spots that are nothing more than insect excrement.
Thrips in outdoor
In outdoor cultivation, there aren’t major problems with this type of pest. Some plants are found with affected leaves, but this rarely becomes a serious problem at harvest time. In any case, it is advisable to follow the same pest prevention and control techniques as in indoor cultivation.
Thrips Prevention and Treatment
To treat Thrips infestation in cannabis, it is important to implement integrated control measures. This may include the use of organic insecticides or commercial products specifically designed for Thrips, applied regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is also helpful to employ physical methods such as manual removal of the insects and maintaining an unfavorable environment for their reproduction, such as removing weeds and plant debris, as well as improving air circulation and ventilation in the growing area. You can also consider introducing beneficial insects that feed on Thrips, such as ladybugs.
Then I recommend you to:
- Set yellow traps in the grow rooms, so they catch some Thrips and alert you to the appearance of the infestation.
- In outdoor or greenhouse grows, keep the plant substrate free of weeds, as these weeds provide refuge for Thrips that could affect your crop.
- Regularly use insecticides such as potassium soap, which is natural and very effective.
