Whiteflies
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- Whiteflies are small winged insects that look more like moths than flies
- Powdery wax on their bodies both protects them and is key to their identification
- Size: Approximately 1/16 inch long
- Damage plants by tapping into the phloem
- Conregate in large numbers and overwhelm plants quickly
Behavior and Habitat of Whiteflies
Whiteflies damage plants by tapping into the phloem, or carbohydrate-containing plant juices. The plants lose sap and react to the whiteflies' saliva. As whiteflies congregate in large numbers, they overwhelm plants quickly. It can get so bad that when you tap a leaf, a swarm of whiteflies will go airborne before settling under the leaf. They also excrete honeydew, which promotes sooty mold growth and can ruin crops with its stickiness. Whiteflies are typically found on the underside of plant leaves, and have a large list of hosts. Some ornamental plants are susceptible to silverleaf whitefly infestations.
Signs of Infestation of Whiteflies
Whiteflies cause leaf damage, sap drainage, honeydew (which lures other insects), and unsightly plant appearances.
Tips for Prevention of Whiteflies
Control of silverleaf whiteflies can be extremely difficult, so consulting a professional pest management company, such as Hulett Environmental Services, is most likely the best way to manage this pest.
Whitefly Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
Termites 101: A South Florida Homeowners Guide
Jun 07, 2021—Florida Termites
South Florida is an attractive place to call home. It's no wonder termites also love West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Pierce and other South Florida neighborhoods. In fact, termites are predicted to damage over 50% of South Florida structures by 2040, according to...
Read More ›
Drywood vs Subterranean Termites
May 03, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Identification & Control
Here at Hulett Environmental Services, we receive many questions regarding the different species of termites and questions about the various effective treatment methods for eradicating infestations, including "Do you tent for subterranean termites?", along with "Does tenting kill subterranean...
Read More ›
What to Know about Termite Swarming Season
Apr 27, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Termites
As the warmer and rainy months approach, South Floridians must be aware that termite swarming season is also upon us, putting homes and businesses at increased risk of becoming infested. In fact, South Florida is home to many of the cities known for having some of the most termite infestations...
Read More ›
