Extension to provide update on Whitefly infestation

(MIAMI, April 6, 2012) – The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division is offering pest control companies, homeowners associations, and landscapers an opportunity to learn more about the whiteflies and how to protect their plants.  Extension is hosting a workshop on Friday, April 20, 2011, at 9:30 a.m., at the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Auditorium, 18710 SW 288 Street in Homestead, Florida. 

The event will focus on the rugose (gumbo limbo spiraling) whitefly that has infested a wide range of landscape plants.  This specie also produces sooty mold, and honeydew that covers cars, pool decks, and patio furniture from infested trees overhead. Other whitefly infestations will also be addressed, such as the ficus whitefly that has devastated much of the County’s ficus hedges and ficus trees, during the past several years, causing massive defoliation.

For details on the gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly, signs of infestation and treatment options, go to the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension’s website at http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu/ and click the "gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly" link.  You may also contact the UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension office at 305.248.3311.