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Whitefly

Easy DIY
Whitefly

Identification

Tiny white, moth-like insects that cluster on the underside of leaves, flying up in a small cloud when disturbed, and weakening plants by feeding on sap.

Can I DIY this?

Easy DIY

You can handle this one yourself.

With the right product and a little patience, most homeowners take care of this pest on their own. Follow the treatment guide, read the product label, and you're set.

Download PDF guide
  1. Check the undersides of leaves — whiteflies fly up in a small cloud when the plant is disturbed, which is usually how they're first noticed.
  2. Yellow sticky traps placed near affected plants help monitor and reduce adult populations.
  3. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the undersides of leaves, since that's where eggs and nymphs live.
  4. For persistent infestations, a systemic insecticide applied to the soil provides longer control than repeated contact sprays.
  5. Reapply every 7-14 days, since whiteflies reproduce quickly and eggs aren't affected by a single treatment.

Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes with socks, chemical-resistant gloves, and goggles. Add a respirator if the label calls for it or ventilation is poor.