How to Get Rid of Whiteflies
About Whiteflies
Whiteflies can be very difficult to get rid of once found on your plants. These small winged insects cause damage to your plants by sucking out the sap from the leaves and stems. This pest treatment guide will walk you through how to get rid of whiteflies for good.
Identification
Whiteflies have yellowish white bodies and tiny wings. These insects are commonly mistaken for mealybugs because of their white complexion and clustering habits.
Accessing Plant Health For Whiteflies Damage
Wilting and shriveled leaves
Yellowing leaves
Dropping leaves
Stunted Growth
Treatment
The Dish Soap Method: Grab a spray bottle and mix two tablespoons of dish soap with 1 quart of water. Spray each of the leaves and stems and wipe away with a paper towel. Repeat the process once a week until the infestation of whiteflies disappears.
Insecticides: If the dish soap method did not work, try using an insecticide. The directions are on the back of the bottle of the insecticide you choose. Always use protection when using insecticides.
WARNING: some pesticides and fungicides are known to be toxic if ingested, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. It may cause moderate eye or skin irritation. Always read labels of the products you are using the proper safety equipment.
Prevention
The best way to prevent a whiteflies infestation is to use sticky traps. Make sure you are not over fertilizing your plants with nitrogen.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, you can add a tablespoon of vinegar to your dish soap mixture to help eliminate white fly infestations.
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Most of the time a whiteflies infestation comes from the location you purchase the plant from. You may also be using too much of a high nitrogen based fertilizer.
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No, whiteflies do not bite.