Identification
Tiny (1–2 mm) white insects resembling minuscule moths that rise in a cloud when the plant is disturbed. They feed on the underside of leaves, sucking sap and excreting honeydew. This causes yellowing and weakening. Common on tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and pelargoniums, especially in polytunnels and greenhouses.
Treatment
Yellow sticky traps (whitefly is strongly attracted to yellow), potassium soap, oil-based preparations. In biological control, the parasitic wasp Encarsia. Quarantining new seedlings and ventilating protected crops are important.
Sources
- Atlas of vegetable pests
