Both Aphids and Thrips are attracted most to plants that are growing too lush and green, usually because of too much Nitrogen in the plant food.

An easy method of control is a sharp spray of water that knocks these wee buggers off the plants.

kimmq is kimmsr

Hi Kimmq, Thank you so much for your knowledgeable advice. I did not know there is such a thing as too lush and green. I thought that was a good thing?!

I have been reluctant to carry my plants into the shower because I fear bringing the pests indoors. I have been using tweezers to pick them off but there are just too many.

if you have no houseplants .. then there is no reason to fear taking them indoors, into the shower ...

they will die with no plant to suck on ... they are not a threat to you in any sense ...

also. i dont believe they fly... so they go down the drain ...

you can accomplish the same shower effect with a quart/liter spray bottle from the hardware store.. with just plain water ... see link for example ...

ken

http://www.lowes.com/pd_502461-27607-52332___?productId=50022562&pl=1&Ntt=spray+bottle

Or if you have a child - borrow their super soaker water gun. :) Might feel more like you are executing them. ;)

That sounds frustrating. What plants did you have? Are some true annuals that had just reached the end of their run?