Whiteflies are soft-bodied, winged insects that are closely related to aphids and mealybugs. They can be found in most any region, but are so tiny that they’re usually camouflaged. They’re as small as 1/16 of an inch long, partly triangular in shape with powdery white wings and short antennas. They’re normally found in clusters on the underside of the leaves. You’ll find them active in the daytime. Whiteflies are capable of reproducing through out the year in warmer climates, and mid-late summer when it gets warm. Since its warm most year-round here in Florida, whitefly can be a consistent issue.
Whiteflies are common green house pests, and tend to suck on ornamentals and warm weather vegetable plants. Most commonly infested plants include citrus, squash, poinsettia, potato, cucumber, grape, tomato and hibiscus plants. They like to suck on the plant juices and in turn produce a sticky substance known as honeydew. Honeydew left on its own can cause fungal diseases to form on the leaves. The plants will quickly become extremely weak and may be unable to carry out photosynthesis. You’ll notice the leaves will turn pale or yellow and have stunted growth. If you notice honeydew that is a sign that whiteflies have been feeding for several days. Honeydew could also attract a lot of ants.
When inspecting for whitefly check the underside of the leaves around the veins for white insects, as well as feel the leaf surfaces for honeydew. The leaves may be sticky or covered in a black sooty mold. You may also notice eggs laid on the undersides of the leaves. When the eggs hatch the larvae will look like tiny white ovals. Adult females can produce up to 400 eggs that can hatch around a week’s time. The eggs are a pale yellow when newly laid and turn brown when they’re about to hatch.
Large dense hedges can be stripped in less than two months when having a whitefly infestation. When it comes to whitefly its always best to hire a professional to treat as they can quickly destroy your ornamental’s. Here at Palm Coast Pest Control we’re here to help keep your property and plants pest free. So, when in doubt make sure to choose the best, Palm Coast Pest!
