Your foliage and greenery are in great danger with the recent infestation of the Ficus Whitefly. South Florida has seen huge quantities of this pesky insect in their yards. What exactly should you do if you see a Ficus Whitefly in your yard? First, hire your local exterminator. There are other steps that you can take to prevent the Ficus Whitefly from damaging your plants.
Procedure: Drench the soil around the base of the tree or hedge with a product that holds a neonicotinoid compound.
Why? When used properly, these products should give adequate control of the whitefly for 4-8 months (or perhaps longer) depending on the size of the tree or shrub. Your local Broward County exterminators will recommend that you monitor your plants 3 months after application for the presence of live nymphs. Pesticide sprays can also be used to treat “hot spots” or get quick knockdown in addition to the soil applications. Products that can be considered for foliar applications are listed in the next section (Control in the Nursery), but it is important to only use those products that are allowed in the landscape. Also, the products (neonicotinoids) listed in the below table can used as a foliar spray but it is not recommended that you use them as both a foliar and soil application and it is the soil application that will provide the longest control.
The best way to ensure that your plants are not being invated by the Ficus Whitefly is to call your local exterminators today.
