The State of Florida is currently experiencing the introduction of new harmful insects that specifically feed on plants and trees.
In an effort to reduce broad applications of dangerous insecticides, we are exploring the release of beneficial insects into the landscape.
We have consulted with the University of Florida and other colleagues particularly in Southern Florida to address a solution to our problem.
Lady bug beetles and green lace wings are thought to be beneficial insects that when introduced into the landscape can attack the harmful bugs and reduce their impact.
We have completed some small releases of lady bug beetles in controlled environments recently.
We will be monitoring those locations to see the effects and expand our understanding.
Please visit our website www.grantsgardens.com to see pictures of our landscapes or call the office at 941-343-9396 to schedule service.
The Rugose Spiraling Whitefly, also known as Gumbo Limbo Spiraling Whitefly is new Whitefly to South West Florida
This new whitefly is a large, slow-moving insect capable of infesting a wide range of landscape plants such as: Gumbo Limbo, White Bird of Paradise, Mango, Black Olive, Palms, Copperleaf, Cocoplum, Wax Myrtle.
This whitefly is different from the Ficus Whitefly. So far, the Rugose Spiraling Whitefly is not causing severe plant damage such as plant death or severe branch die back.
This insect is very easy to identify. White spirals and a white waxy substance builds-up on the underside of leaves. Heavy infestation can sometimes weaken plants and disfigure infective plants and understory plants with Black Sooty Mold that grows on the insect’s excrement, also known as Honeydew. The sticky Honeydew can accumulate on cars, pool decks and patio furniture. Once the insect is under control, the Sooty Mold and Honeydew will disappear.
Whitefly Management:
Small Plants – thoroughly wash plants off with a strong stream of water. Follow-up with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprayed once a week for 3 to 4 weeks. Repeat as needed.
Larger plants and ornamental trees; heavily infested ornamental plants – thoroughly wash plants or for the strong stream of water. Systemic insecticides can be applied as a soil drench, trunk injection, as a granule or as a tablet. Systemics may take several weeks to be effective for large trees and palms. However, systemics of very long-lasting (9 to 12 months).
Trunk injection is the most effective alternative to spraying or soil applying pesticides for tree insect or pest-control. Unlike spraying or soil applications, trunk injection injects formulations directly inside the tree or Palm.
Fruit trees – must be treated in the same way that small plants are treated. Grant’s Gardens, Inc. does not recommend the use of insecticides and pesticides on edible crops.
Please call Grant’s Gardens, Inc. for a consultation.
