Whiteflies are one of the most significant pests affecting greenhouse crops such as cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and kidney beans. In severely infested fields, yield losses can exceed 30%. When whitefly populations become problematic, it's essential to combine chemical control with specific monitoring thresholds. For example, in tomato crops, treatment should be considered when there are more than 10 whiteflies per leaf, while for cucumbers, the threshold is 50 to 60 adults per leaf.
Several effective and low-toxic pesticides can be used for control. These include 2.5% Bifenthrin WP diluted at 2500–3000 times, which is effective against eggs, nymphs, and adult whiteflies. Another option is 2.5% Kungfu EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate), diluted at 2000–3000 times, and it works well when mixed with a wetting agent. Additionally, 25% Imidacloprid EC can be applied at 2000–2500 times, or 2500–3000 times of Avermectin EC, and 2.5% Cyfluthrin EC diluted at 3000 times.
To prevent the development of pesticide resistance, it's important to rotate between different active ingredients. Spraying should be done on the underside of leaves, and treatments should be repeated every 5 to 7 days. In severe cases, up to 3 to 4 applications may be needed, resulting in a control efficacy of over 98%.
Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to managing whitefly infestations effectively. Farmers should also consider integrating cultural practices, such as using reflective mulches or introducing natural predators, to enhance long-term pest management. By combining these strategies, growers can maintain healthy crops while minimizing environmental impact.
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