Field library

Whitefly

Whitefly: Detailed Overview

Whitefly is a harmful insect that attacks many important crops. These small, white-winged pests feed on the sap of plants, causing significant damage. Whiteflies typically gather on the undersides of leaves, weakening the plants and reducing crop yields.

Affected Crops:

• Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, okra, eggplant
• Fruits: Mango, citrus, papaya
• Cotton
• Soybean
• Ornamental plants

Damage:

1. Yellowing of Leaves: Whiteflies suck the sap from plants, leading to yellowing, wilting, and weakening of the leaves.
2. Sooty Mold: Whiteflies excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which encourages the growth of black sooty mold on the plant leaves. This mold interferes with photosynthesis and reduces the plant’s ability to grow.
3. Virus Transmission: Whiteflies can transmit viral diseases like Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV), which can cause even more severe crop losses.

Control Methods:

Agritas offers effective products to control whitefly infestations:

1. Zizir 10%EC (Bifenthrin):
• Highly effective in controlling whiteflies and other pests.
• Application: Spray thoroughly on affected plants, ensuring proper coverage. Use as directed on the product label.
2. Coupraze (Thiomathaxim):
• Provides quick action against whiteflies and offers long-lasting protection.
• Application: Apply at the first sign of whitefly infestation, ensuring full coverage of leaves.

Additional Tips:

• Biological Control: Beneficial insects like ladybugs can naturally help reduce whitefly populations.
• Chemical Spraying Schedule: Regular application of insecticides can help prevent whitefly spread and keep crops healthy.

How to scout

Turn over leaves in the upper canopy early in the morning and count the adults that fly up. Check 20 plants across the field, not just the edges.