There is a new pest in South Florida known as Rugose (formerly known as Gumbo Limbo) Spiraling Whitefly. This insect is closely related to the Ficus Whitefly that causes extensive damage on ficus hedges all throughout South Florida. Unlike the Ficus Whitefly, the Rugose Spiraling Whitefly is very commonly found on many palms, especially coconut palms and Christmas palms. The most noticeable symptoms of an infestation of this whitefly is the abundance of the white, waxy material covering the leaves and also excessive sooty mold.

Like other similar insects, these whiteflies will produce "honeydew", a sugary substance, which causes the growth of sooty mold. The actual effect of an infestation on the health of a plant is unknown; however, whiteflies in general can cause plant decline, defoliation and branch dieback.

Although this pest is not likely to kill your palms, the honeydew dropped by the whiteflies is a severe nuisance, especially over pool decks, docks and driveways. Whiteflies are the small winged insects that belong to the Order Hemiptera which also includes aphids, scales, and mealybugs. These insects typically feed on the underside of leaves with their "needle-like" mouthparts. Whiteflies can seriously injure host plants by sucking nutrients from the plant causing wilting, yellowing, stunting, leaf drop, or even death. There are more than 75 different whiteflies reported in Florida.

 

Palm Tree Doctor
has developed a very effective treatment to control Spiraling Whitefly. Please contact us for information or to schedule an appointment to diagnose and treat your palms.