MSU ExtensionIntegrated Pest Management

Sucking pests

Whiteflies – primarily the nymphs – remove plant fluids with their piercing-sucking mouthparts resulting in leaf yellowing. Like aphids, whiteflies produce honeydew – a clear, sticky liquid.

Whitefly adults are 3 mm long with two pairs of wings covered with powdery white wax. Adults tend to be located on the undersides of leaves.

Large whitefly populations may cause plant stunting, wilting and possibly death. Eggs, nymphs and pupae are typically located on the undersides of leaves.

Whitefly nymphs are elliptical, 2 to 3 mm long and pale yellow, and they reside on leaf undersides. Some species have setae or hairs protruding from the body.

Management

Remove weeds from adjacent areas – many weeds serve as a reservoir for whiteflies. Placing yellow sticky cards among plants, just above the canopy, will trap adults. Dispose of plants heavily infested with whiteflies. Prune out or remove plant parts with whiteflies and dispose of everything in plastic containers. Contact and systemic insecticides may be effective in controlling whiteflies.

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