Thrips Traps: How and Where Should You Place Them for Best Results?

Sticky traps are the first line of defence against thrips. Discreet, non-toxic and effective 24/7, they catch flying adults and warn you at the first signs of an infestation, long before it gets out of control. Here is how to get the most out of them.

Why use thrips traps?

Sticky traps play two complementary roles:

• Monitoring — detect an infestation at its very start, before damage shows on the leaves
• Capture — reduce the population of breeding adults and limit the spread

They do not replace a full curative treatment, but they are an essential prevention and monitoring tool.

Which colour for thrips?

Thrips are particularly attracted to green and yellow:

• Green traps — designed specifically for thrips, they blend into the foliage. Our green butterfly-shaped thrips traps combine effectiveness and good looks.
• Yellow traps — all-rounders, they also catch fungus gnats, whiteflies and winged aphids. Recommended if you have several types of pest.

Where should you place the traps?

• At foliage height — just above or among the leaves to intercept adults in flight
• Near new growth and flowers — thrips are especially fond of young tissue
• One trap per plant at least — two in the case of an active infestation
• North side of the plant — thrips tend to fly towards the light, so from inside the room

When should you change the traps?

• As soon as the adhesive surface is saturated with insects (loss of effectiveness)
• Or systematically every 4 to 6 weeks
• In the case of an active infestation, change them every 2 weeks to track how it evolves

Traps + treatment = a complete strategy

The traps catch flying adults. To break the full thrips cycle:

• Jungle Buddies (nematodes) — eliminate the larvae in the potting mix
• Neem oil — foliar treatment against the larvae and adults on the leaves
• Sticky traps — catch the flying adults

The Ultimate Anti-Thrips Kit brings these 3 elements together in a single purchase.

FAQ: thrips traps

Can the traps catch beneficial insects?

Yes, outdoors yellow traps can catch a few beneficial insects. Indoors, this risk is almost nil — there are no bees or ladybirds in your flat.

How many thrips on a trap indicate a serious infestation?

More than 5 to 10 thrips per week on a trap = an active infestation to treat quickly. A few isolated individuals = a low presence to keep an eye on.