Description:

• Thrips attack is a common problem during the seedling to flowering stage, especially in dry weather conditions.
• It can cause around 25% yield loss by damaging tender leaves and flower buds.

Damage Symptoms:

• Leaves turn silver-streaked and curl upwards.
• Premature flower shedding decreases fruit set.
• Distortion and stunting in young leaves impede the growth of the chilli plant.

Preventive Measures:

• Place Reflective mulches in the field.
• Crop rotation can be practiced.

Control Measures:

• Spray fipronil 5 SC at 1 ml/l or spinosad 0.3 ml/l at 15-day intervals.
• Regular neem oil (1%) sprays can be applied to control the thrips population.