Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook

Alfalfa seed-Thrips

Frankliniella spp.

Pest description and crop damage Small, slender, quick-moving insects about 0.1 inch long. The insect's economic impact in alfalfa seed production is unknown.

Management-chemical control

Most programs using insecticides to control other injurious insects will reduce thrips populations. Chemical control generally is not recommended solely for thrips because populations rebound dramatically to pretreatment levels.

Kaur, N. (Ed.). 2023 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook.
© Oregon State University.

Use pesticides safely!

Wear protective clothing and safety devices as recommended on the label. Bathe or shower after each use.
Read the pesticide label—even if you’ve used the pesticide before. Follow closely the instructions on the label (and any other directions you have).
Be cautious when you apply pesticides. Know your legal responsibility as a pesticide applicator. You may be liable for injury or damage resulting from pesticide use.

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