Monstera thrips

Silver streaks, tiny black droppings, and distorted new leaves are useful thrips clues. Inspect already-open leaves, their undersides, and the outside of new leaf sheaths with a magnifier.

Treat without forcing leaves open

Separate the plant, rinse accessible leaf surfaces, and follow the thrips treatment guide. Let rolled leaves unfurl naturally; opening them by hand can tear tender tissue.

Repeat treatment according to the chosen product and keep checking neighboring plants. Eggs and other stages can escape one application. Keep partly green leaves, and judge progress by live pest counts and new damage rather than old scars disappearing.