They suck plant sap. Early damage is seen as yellow speckling on the leaf s upper surface. Webbing may be seen on the undersides of leaves. With severe infestations, leaves may become a grayish or bronze color and webbing may cover both sides of leaves and branches. Mites can be removed with a strong spray of water.
Insecticides are also available.
Adult flower thrips are small, yellowish brown, winged insects. They suck plant sap. Their feeding results in distorted buds. Petals in open blooms are streaked, scarred, and have browning edges. Control of these pests is difficult.