Not only are they small, but they also know how to hide well under the leaves of your plants. Thus, you often only recognize whiteflies when your plant is already completely infested. The leaves then often show unsightly symptoms. Fortunately, there are numerous treatments available. In order for this to have an effect, you should be sure that it really is a whitefly infestation. Here you will learn how to interpret the damage correctly.
Whiteflies are visible to the naked eye
Endangered Plants
The whitefly mainly targets vegetables. Nevertheless, the infestation of ornamental plants cannot be ruled out either. The most commonly haunted plants include:
- tomatoes
- cucumbers
- cabbage
- geraniums
- fuchsias
- primroses
- the hardworking little one
- hibiscus
- Christmasstars
Note: Above all, the climatic conditions in a greenhouse are ideal for the whitefly.
symptoms of an infestation
Appearance of the whitefly
Since whiteflies are very small, they often remain hidden from the human eye at first glance. Their body size is only 1.5-2 mm. The pests are actually whitefly. However, their white color and wings make the designation of the white fly a coherent nickname. The animals usually settle on the undersides of the leaves. Infestation is most likely in late summer. In warm temperatures, however, they multiply early.
Damage to plants
- Eggs are laid in rings on the undersides of the leaves
- Yellow, green or brown larvae
- smallpox on the leaves
- Flying up when touching the plant parts
- honeydew
- Yellow discoloration on the leaves
- withered leaves
- leaf shedding
sequelae
The honeydew excreted by the whiteflies attracts the sooty mold fungus. In addition, the whitefly can transmit viruses to the plant.