How to spot it

Tiny white moth-like insects that fly up in a cloud when you brush the plant. Flat, pale young ones sit still under the leaves.

What it does

They suck sap, so leaves yellow and plants weaken. They leave sticky honeydew and black sooty mold, and spread plant viruses.

What to do now

• Hang yellow sticky cards.
• Spray insecticidal soap, neem, or horticultural oil under the leaves every 5 to 7 days.
• Suck up adults with a hand vacuum in the cool morning.

Keep it away next time

• Check transplants before you buy them or bring them home.
• Reflective silver mulch keeps many away.
• Go easy on nitrogen fertilizer.

Helpful supplies

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Plants it affects

See also