Summer’s Here so that means it is Time to Watch for Chilli Thrips
The warm weather has arrived, and while your roses are loving the sunshine, there’s one unwelcome visitor that thrives in Perth’s summer heat: chilli thrips. These microscopic pests have been causing headaches for rose lovers across Western Australia, and staying alert now can save your blooms later.
Spotting the problem early
You won’t see chilli thrips easily—they’re barely visible to the naked eye. What you will notice is the damage they leave behind. Keep an eye out for new growth that looks twisted or stunted, buds that won’t open properly, and leaves with a strange silvery or scorched appearance. If your roses seem healthy otherwise but the new shoots look off, chilli thrips could be the culprit.
The key is checking your roses regularly during the warmer months. A quick walk around your garden every few days helps you catch issues before they get out of hand.
What to do if you spot Chilli Thrips
Give me a call or email me and I will setup a time to come and take a look at your roses. Also, remember to keep your roses well-watered and fed through summer—strong, healthy plants cope with stress much better than struggling ones. With consistent care and attention, you can keep chilli thrips under control and enjoy beautiful roses all season long.