As temperatures rise and humidity levels fluctuate, greenhouses and nurseries become ideal environments for some of the most difficult-to-control insect pests, including thrips, aphids and mites. These insects can cause significant plant damage and create entry points for disease, accelerating overall plant health decline. Prevention is key to optimizing control and minimizing long-term impact.

Identify Common Insects and Early Signs of Damage

Thrips

Thrips are tiny insects that feed on pollen, flower petals and tender plant tissue, causing leaf stippling, scarring and distortion. Some species also transmit destructive plant viruses such as impatiens necrotic spot

Thrips injury on Dipladenia, Nancy Rechcigl, 2023

virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. Due to their short life cycles and ability to hide within plant material, thrips can be difficult to manage once populations are established. Preventive insecticide applications are often recommended to help reduce pressure and prevent damage.

Aphids

Aphids have piercing-sucking mouthparts that penetrate the phloem and extract plant sap, reducing overall plant vigor. Both adults and nymphs contribute to damage, which may include reduced leaf expansion, leaf discoloration or silvering, leaf drop and honeydew secretions that can lead to black sooty mold on leaf surfaces. Early detection and control are critical to help prevent rapid population growth and secondary issues.

Mites

Mites are common spring pests that become active as temperatures rise. Two-spotted spider mites typically feed on the undersides of leaves, while broad mites target young,

Spider mites on rose, Nancy Rechcigl, 2022

developing tissue as it unfolds. Early symptoms often appear as white, speckled stippling on upper foliage. Since mite populations can overlap across multiple generations and life stages, they are especially challenging to control once established and may require multiple targeted treatments.

Enhance Defense with Vykenda

While pest identification and early prevention are essential to protecting crop quality and market value, an effective insecticide rotation program is just as critical. Many greenhouse pests are becoming increasingly difficult to control due to the development of resistance to existing chemistries.

Powered by PLINAZOLIN^® technology, Vykenda™ insecticide/miticide introduces a new class of chemistry for the ornamental market in IRAC Group 30. With no known resistance or cross-resistance to other insecticides, Vykenda is a strong tool for resistance management.



Vykenda pairs effectively with Mainspring^® GNL insecticide, which is proven to control sucking pests such as whiteflies and aphids. Rotating Vykenda with Mainspring GNL gives growers a comprehensive solution for managing nearly all common greenhouse insects.
 
​​​​​​For more information, visit GreenCastOnline.com/Vykenda to learn how to incorporate Vykenda into your pest management program.


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