Occasional Invaders
Whitefly
Tiny white, moth-like insects that feed on the underside of leaves. A common pest on houseplants, greenhouse crops and vegetable gardens.
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Quick facts
- Size
- 1–2 mm
- Colour
- White wings, pale yellow body
- Active season
- Year-round indoors and in greenhouses; summer outdoors
- Where found
- Houseplants, greenhouses, vegetable gardens
How to Identify
- Very small, white, wedge-shaped insect
- Wings covered in a white, powdery wax
- Rise in a cloud when plants are disturbed
Signs to Look For
- White insects on the undersides of leaves
- Sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves and surfaces
- Yellowing leaves and black sooty mould
Why It Matters
- Weaken and stunt plants by feeding on sap
- Can spread plant viruses in greenhouses and gardens
- Multiply quickly in warm indoor conditions
Prevention Tips
- Inspect new plants before bringing them indoors
- Use yellow sticky traps to monitor
- Isolate and rinse affected plants
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