Whiteflies are a common pest affecting both houseplants and outdoor gardens. Like many plant pests, whiteflies can damage and even kill your plants if left untreated. Luckily, there are several ways to treat whitefly infestations in your houseplants. Here are some of the most effective methods:
Whiteflies can be sucked up with a vacuum and disposed of outside the home. Use a handheld vacuum or hose attachment with very low suction strength so you don't harm the plants. Carefully vacuum both sides of leaves and the stems of the plant to get rid of whiteflies in a hurry.
Another efficient way of removing a whitefly infestation is by spraying plants with water. Take your houseplants outside and give them a thorough bath with the hose. Use enough water pressure to wash the insects away, but be careful not to harm any tender foliage.
Yellow sticky traps are useful for controlling many houseplant pests including whiteflies. Add these traps to your plants near the base of the plant to capture and kill adult whiteflies. Follow the label instructions for best usage advice.
Use either a store-bought insecticidal soap spray or make your own mixture at home. To create a DIY spray, mix plain dish soap or castile soap with water. Begin with a weak concentration of about one teaspoon per gallon to avoid making suds.
Neem oil is a natural insecticide and fungicide commonly used to treat and prevent plant pest infestations. It's major advantage is having a systemic effect, meaning it will keep working after the plant has absorbed some of the oil. Combining neem oil and insecticdal soap is a great way to treat your plants on an ongoing basis to prevent new whitefly growth.
The best treatment for whiteflies is prevention. An extremely effective way to prevent a whitefly infestation is to carefully inspect every new plant before and after you bring it home. Many plant owners treat their new plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil right away, regardless of pest activity.
While it might take more than one method or round of treatment, these are the best ways to control and prevent whiteflies in your houseplants. Check your plants regularly and treat any symptoms right away to keep them as healthy as possible.
Kim Clark started her real estate career in 1999 and shortly thereafter obtained her Broker’s license in 2002. After working for larger, corporate offices, she realized that her business and clients needed a more personalized and flexible firm. She founded Bayside Realty Consultants in 2007 offering a space of unity, collaboration and encouragement for agents and their clients. Kim specializes in the unique Cape Cod market comprised of primary, vacation and investment properties.
She says "It is great to be a part of helping make a homeowner's dreams come true". Clients and their individual needs can make things very exciting! Kimberly's enthusiasm is contagious and it has been a real asset in her successful career. She says, "Never quit. Just do what you like and the rest just falls into place." She is certified in several real estate designations including GRI, CBR, CRS, e-Certified, and a certified trainer.
