Fig (Ficus) Whitefly
The first reports of the Fig Whitefly, also known as the Ficus Whitefly, surfaced in 2007. This pest has become an overwhelming problem for many homeowners with ficus trees and hedges. The bare defoliated ficus shrubs can be seen throughout the south Florida region.
Due to their ability to reproduce rapidly, the ficus whitefly can quickly strip the foliage from a large hedge or tree. The key to managing this pest is detection and intervention. The noticeable signs of whitefly activity are yellowing of the leaves. If left untreated, defoliation will soon occur. In more severe cases branch die back can also occur.
Controlling this pest can be achieved through applications of systemic insecticide. The systemic insecticide can be drenched into the root zone of the plant or applied as a granule. A foliar application of contact insecticide is usually necessary to control existing whiteflies. This will also allow the systemic treatment time to take effect. Treatments usually last 4-6 months, but may require follow up applications to continue prevention of reoccurring damage.
The image below shows a ficus hedge that was partially infested with the ficus whitefly.
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