Becky...I deal with 'thrips' on my red and purple plants by using the natural method of Murphy's Oil Soap. As soon as I see buds on the scapes about 3 weeks before the plants flower, I just mix up Lisa's concoction above in a spray bottle, and spray all my red and purple plants. It works like a charm. It's just part of my Summer routine. And it won't bother your butterflies, bees, ants etc.
