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Pests · Plant health field guide

Whiteflies

Whiteflies are sap-feeding insects whose adults often fly when foliage is disturbed.

Isolate nowPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Signs you may notice

  • small white flying insects
  • sticky leaves
  • yellowing
  • leaf underside insects

Safe first checks

  1. Gently disturb leaves and inspect undersides for adults and immature stages.
  2. Move the plant away from the collection.
  3. Inspect both sides of leaves, stems, crevices, and the pot.
  4. Photograph the signs before cleaning so you can compare changes.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

  • fungus gnats
  • aphids
  • small moths

What to avoid

Do not apply several pesticides at once or treat before confirming that a living pest is present.

Record and follow up

Reinspect the isolated plant and nearby plants every few days. Record living pests, new damage, and treatment response before deciding the problem is resolved.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.