Nature of damage and control of Whitefly:-
- The whitefly is a sap-sucking insect that is often found in thick crowds on the undersides of leaves. When infested plants are disturbed, great clouds of the winged adults fly into the air.
- Both nymphs and adults damage plants by sucking the juices from new growth causing stunted growth, leaf yellowing and reduced yields. Plants become weak and susceptible to disease.
- Like aphids, whiteflies secrete honeydew, so leaves maybe sticky or covered with a black sooty mould.
- They are also responsible for transmitting several plant viruses.
- Host plants include more than 250 ornamental and vegetable plants. Citrus, squash, potato, cucumber, grape, tomato, Chilli and hibiscus are commonly infested.
- Control Triazophos 40% EC @ 45 Ml/ 15 litre water or Difenthiuron 50% WP 10 Gm/ 15 litre water or Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 10 Gm/ 15 litre water
are effective against whiteflies.
