Thrips pressure is expected to increase in South Florida vegetable fields. Growers are reminded to monitor populations and implement management tactics early, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. This is especially important for commodities that are vulnerable to viruses vectored by thrips.
Populations are reportedly low in central Florida, though they are expected to increase as the weather warms. Though thrips numbers are still below normal in Southwest Florida, they have increased significantly in most crops. Most are Florida flower thrips.
Thrips are increasing in snap beans around the Everglades Agricultural Area. Most are western flower thrips, which are also reportedly high in Palm Beach County. Florida flower thrips have increased in Martin County. Control measures are needed due to high populations.
Populations are also increasing around the Miami-Dade County area. Western flower thrips are high on older snap beans. Melon thrips are observed at low to moderate levels in younger plantings
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