Whiteflies

Whiteflies are flying pest insects that cause damage to plants by piercing them to feed on their sap. They resemble small white flies and take flight when disturbed.

Host plants

Whitefly infestations affect over five hundred plant species. Poinsettias, hibiscus, and plants from the euphorbia family are among the most affected ornamental varieties. Regarding vegetable plants, greenhouse crops of herbs, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and various cucurbit varieties are particularly targeted.

Screening

Pierced leaves may become wilted, yellowed, or spotted with dozens of small white or yellow dots. Honeydew is a sticky, transparent substance that accumulates on leaves and stems. When honeydew is secreted in sufficient quantity, it can cause a form of black mold called sooty mold.

Yellow sticky traps can capture individuals and confirm whitefly infestation.

Prevention

Although widespread worldwide, whiteflies are tropical insects, and their spread outside this climate always occurs from one indoor culture to another through people, plants, or other contaminated objects. Sachets of Amblyseius swirskii are effective for preventing infestations.

Treatment

The majority of treatments, including natural predators, are ineffective against adults, which easily escape. However, treating eggs and larvae can eliminate the infestation. Thorough cleaning, foliar insecticide application, and introduction of natural predators are recommended.

Amblyseius swirskii target whitefly eggs and are recommended for prevention as well as treatment. In case of infestation, they will need to be combined with Encarsia formosas or Orius insidiosus, which attack the pupae.