Thrips Update in South Florida Crops

Thrips are reported to be observed at low to moderate levels overall in southwest Florida, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. Thrips palmi populations are at moderate levels and increasing. Populations are dense enough that they are causing some leaf and fruit scarring in some crops. Populations remain low in beans. Asian bean thrips are the dominate species …

Watch for Flower Thrips in Blueberries

Flower thrips (Frankliniella bispinosa) are insects that attack Florida blueberries and cause harm to the fruit. According to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) research, larvae and adults feed on every part of the flowers including ovaries, styles, petals and developing fruit. The effects of this invasive species include damage to the fruit by reducing …

Thrips Pressure Low in Most Florida Crops

Thrips pressure is varying across Florida, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. Low thrips pressure is observed in peppers in central Florida. Pressure is also low in pepper and other vegetables in southwest Florida. Scouted thrips are presumed to be Florida flower thrips, as damage is not apparent. Thrips are at low levels in eggplants in Homestead, Florida, …