Question
Last year I noticed tiny white flies in my garden. They cling to the underside of leaves and become active when I water plants or walk thru the garden. I thought that they would die off during winter rains. Unfortunately, they are still there and are spreading throughout the garden. How do I get rid of these tiny pests?
Tyler
Mill Valley
Answer
Whiteflies are hard to get rid of. You may have to do battle on multiple fronts. Whiteflies are attracted to specific plants; Lantana, Hibiscus, Verbena, Tomatoes, Petunias, etc. If you have a severe infestation on a particular plant, you might consider removing it. The larvae are found on the undersides of leaves. To be effective, the undersides of the leaves must be sprayed. Bonide All Seasons Oil or Spinosad will be the most effective. Ladybugs and their young will eat whitefly eggs and larvae. As a last resort, the Bayer All In One or Tree and Shrub Formula are effective systemic insecticides. You can not use these chemicals on food plants. I would ask your neighbors if they also have a whitefly problem. If they do, you should all work together to ensure successful eradication.
Share this post
