Not only are they small, but they also know how to hide well under the leaves of your plants. This means that you often only recognize whiteflies when your plant has already been completely infested. The leaves often already show unsightly symptoms. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available. In order for this to have an effect, you should be sure that it is really a whitefly infestation. Here you will learn how to correctly interpret the damage.
How do I recognize a whitefly infestation on plants?
The damage caused by the whitefly on plants is shown by ring-shaped egg laying on the underside of leaves, yellow, green or brown larvae, poxes on leaves, flies when touched, honeydew, yellow discoloration, dried leaves and leaf shedding. Tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage and ornamental plants are often affected.
Endangered Plants
The whitefly primarily targets vegetable plants. Nevertheless, the infestation of ornamental plants cannot be ruled out. The most commonly haunted plants include:
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- cabbage
- Geraniums
- Fuchsias
- Primroses
- the busy Lieschen
- Hibiscus
- Christmas stars
Note: The climatic conditions in a greenhouse are particularly ideal for whiteflies.
Symptoms of an infestation
Whitefly Appearance
Since whiteflies are very small, they are unfortunately often hidden from the human eye at first glance. Their body size is only 1.5-2 mm. The pests are actually whitefly. However, its white color and wings make the name whitefly a fitting nickname. The animals usually settle on the undersides of the leaves. An infestation is most likely in late summer. However, in warm temperatures they reproduce early.
Damage to plants
- Ring-shaped egg laying on the undersides of leaves
- Yellow, green or brown larvae
- Pox on the leaves
- Fly up when the plant parts are touched
- Honeydew
- Yellow discoloration on the leaves
- Dried leaves
- Leaf shedding
Consequences
The honeydew excreted by the whiteflies attracts the sooty mold fungus. The whitefly insects can also transmit viruses to the plant.
