Thrips in your rhododendrons?

April and September are the best times to get ahead of these tiny sap-suckers before they cause damage in spring and summer. Look for silvering on leaves, distorted new growth, and tiny black insects underneath the foliage.

What to do:
Apply a systemic spray like Groventive or Cyrus (1ml/L) in the evening
Wrap plant bases with Neem Oil-soaked crepe bandages
Clear away leaf litter and mulch where thrips can hide
Encourage natural predators like Hypoapsis mites
Add a drop of detergent to your spray for better coverage

Tackling thrips in April and again in September keeps your rhododendrons protected and looking their best