Whiteflies
insectBemisia tabaci / Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Tiny white flying insects found on leaf undersides. Sap-suckers that excrete honeydew.
Identification
1/16 inch white moth-like insects that fly up in a cloud when plant is disturbed. Scale-like nymphs on leaf undersides.
Damage & Symptoms
Yellowing leaves. Stunted growth. Honeydew and sooty mold. Virus transmission. Leaf drop.
Organic Control
Yellow sticky traps. Insecticidal soap. Neem oil. Release Encarsia formosa parasitic wasps. Reflective mulch.
Chemical Control
Imidacloprid systemic. Pyrethrin. Rotate classes to prevent resistance.
Prevention
Inspect transplants before planting. Remove infested plant parts. Avoid excess nitrogen. Encourage beneficial insects.
Data confidence: medium | Source: curated_ipm