WPB Public Information Alert

REPORTED: 12-11-2008 @ 10:23 am
WHAT: Article

DESCRIPTION: Residents Asked to Monitor Whitefly Outbreak ______________________________________________________________ (Friday, October 10, 2008) Residents are asked to monitor their hedges and other vegetation in their yards for outbreaks of fig whitefly, a small winged insect that feeds on the underside of leaves. A recent whitefly outbreak has the potential to damage or destroy ficus trees and other foliage. The adult whitefly resembles a very small moth and has a yellow body, white wings and a faint gray band in the middle of the wings. Residents are advised to monitor their ficus plants for signs of infestation. The leaves of ficus trees infested with whiteflies begin to turn yellow before the leaves drop from the plant. Ficus trees without their leaves are one of the most obvious symptoms of whitefly infestation. If the foliage is disturbed the small, gnat-like adult whiteflies can be seen flying from the foliage. Insecticidal soap or oil sprays may be an effective method of control for small trees and shrubs. Thorough coverage of the undersides of the leave is important. It may be necessary to repeat this application every 7 to 10 days. Homeowners can also drench the soil around the base of the tree of hedge with a product that contains a neonicotinoid compound, such as Spectricide Systemic Tree and Shrub Insect Control and Fertilizer or Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insect Control. It is also recommended that residents bag and remove the fallen leaves to prevent immature whiteflies from emerging and attacking other ficus plants. For more information, visit http//:Miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu.