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Whiteflies are a pest many homeowners aren’t aware of, or if they are, they are not always considered noticeable or dangerous. They are primarily a concern for farmers and homeowners with gardens, as they can sometimes cause damage to plants.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the essential information about whiteflies that you should know. We’ll talk about what whiteflies are, how to identify them, and their general habits. We’ll also review the potential damage they can cause if they get out of hand. Then, we’ll talk about practical steps you can follow to repel these pests from your yard in West Palm Beach.
If you need to get rid of whiteflies or any other pest quickly, your best option is to contact Empire Pest Defense. We’ve been serving the West Palm Beach area for years and are always happy to help and educate our customers.
What Are Whiteflies?
The first step toward whitefly control is understanding what whiteflies are. Whiteflies are not actually flies, despite what their name suggests. These insects belong to the order Hemiptera, not Diptera, which is the order that true flies belong to. Whiteflies are very small, ranging from 1/16 to 1/10 of an inch in length. They have yellowish bodies and four powder-white wings. Whiteflies lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves, and the sap from plant leaves and stems is their main source of nourishment. Whiteflies excrete honeydew, a sticky, sugary liquid that attracts ants and can interfere with their natural predators.
In the next section, we’ll examine the damage a whitefly infestation can cause in greater detail.
Are Whiteflies Dangerous Or Destructive?
Whiteflies aren’t known to be dangerous to humans. They are generally too small to pose much of a threat to anything except for plants. Even then, whiteflies are usually kept in check by natural predators, like ladybugs, lacewings, and minute pirate bugs.
Whitefly damage typically gets out of hand when these natural predators can’t sufficiently contain or control their population. In large numbers, whitefly feeding can cause leaves and plants to turn yellow and die. Vegetable crops are common targets, though whiteflies can also damage fruit trees and ornamental plants.
Next, let’s look at what you can do to keep these pesky insects away from your home.
How To Deter Whiteflies From Your West Palm Beach Property
Controlling whiteflies can be tricky once they heavily infest your garden or yard. It’s best to be proactive and respond to any threat these pests present before it gets out of hand. Here’s how to prevent whiteflies from infesting your property:
- Inspect your plants frequently for signs of whiteflies.
- Don’t grow plants known to have high rates of whitefly infestation.
- Remove any plant leaves that become infested with whiteflies.
- Avoid using insecticides that could eliminate whiteflies’ natural enemies.
- Use reflective mulch to keep whiteflies away.
These tips should help you protect your property from whiteflies and the damage they can cause. Call a professional pest control company if you are dealing with a whitefly infestation and need assistance.
The Secret To Removing Whiteflies
The best whitefly control in West Palm Beach comes from Empire Pest Defense. We’re a family-owned, professional home pest control company with decades of cumulative experience. Our technicians are licensed, insured, and extensively trained to make sure they can meet and exceed your expectations every time. We offer same-day and emergency services, free estimates, and a pest-free guarantee. Contact Empire Pest Defense today!