Whitefly

• Clouds of tiny white-winged insects that rise when you brush the plant
• Yellowing, wilting leaves — especially on the lower canopy
• Sticky honeydew coating on leaves, followed by black sooty mold
• Pale, scale-like nymphs on the underside of leaves
• Stunted plants with reduced vigor

Whiteflies do not overwinter outdoors in cold climates — they are often introduced on transplants from greenhouses. In warm climates (Zones 9+) and indoors, populations persist year-round. Adults lay eggs on leaf undersides; nymphs feed through four instars before becoming adults. Generations can overlap continuously. The silverleaf whitefly (Bemisia) can transmit plant viruses.

1. 01Inspect transplants carefully before purchasing or bringing indoors — reject any plant showing whiteflies
2. 02Yellow sticky traps monitor adult populations and provide some control near trap clusters
3. 03Reflective silver mulch deters adults from landing
4. 04Strong water sprays on leaf undersides dislodge nymphs and eggs
5. 05Insecticidal soap or neem oil applied to leaf undersides is most effective on nymphs — repeat weekly
6. 06Introduce Encarsia formosa (parasitic wasp) in greenhouses or enclosed spaces

If populations are exploding despite consistent soap applications and you're growing in a greenhouse or hoop house, an extension specialist can advise on biological control introduction rates and confirm the species — some management products are species-specific.

• Whiteflies— UC ANR Integrated Pest Management
• Whitefly Management in Home Gardens— University of Georgia Extension