Asian bean thrips (ABT) continue to be problematic for vegetable producers in South Florida. According to the University of Florida/IFAS, populations are increasing consistently across the region.
Reports from the Homestead region indicate Asian bean thrips are the predominate species, though have decreased from 100% ABT to 70% ABT and 30% F. palmi. Other thrips species are increasing north of Homestead. Most farms are reporting thrips infestations besides ABT.
ABT populations increased to 1.0 ABT per bloom in northeastern Hendry County, with an increase during vegetative stages. In the southeastern part of the county, base populations range from 0.2 to 0.8 ABT per bloom in plantings that are at full bloom. Populations of up to 1.3 ABT per bud were also reported. Later plantings have also reached 4.2 ABT per bloom in early pod development.
ABT was reported at 0.4 ABT per bloom in plantings in northern Collier County, reaching 2.2 ABT per bloom in plantings nearing harvest.
Aggressive insecticide programs have slowed populations to 0.3 ABT per bloom in eastern Palm Beach County.
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