Thrips cause similar damage to mites, and the two may be confused. Thrips do not produce the fine webbing that mites create; they are larger, more mobile, and visible to the unaided eye. The damage is caused by the thrips sucking the contents of plant cells. This leaves a speckled, often silvery, appearance to the plant. Some species will even feed on pollen grains - not eating them whole - but by sucking out the insides!

Thrips are slender insects that are barely visible to the naked eye. Color ranges from yellow, to tan, to brown or black. The younger stages are generally a lighter color than the adults. Thrips rasp leaves and suck sap from leaves and flowers. Injury appears as silvered areas that are speckled with dark fecal spots. The foliage may be blotchy and drop off. Flowers may be streaked, distorted, or fail to open. Infested plants can be dipped or sprayed.