Stink bug management needs to be a priority for the remainder of the season. Silverleaf whitefly have been observed in Tift and Brooks Counties. Infestations were much more intense and more widespread during 1999 and caused significant yield loss in some fields. Silverleaf whitefly has been observed in cotton for several weeks this year. However, when compared to last season, populations are significantly less as a whole, but some fields have high populations.
Correct identification is important.
Many of us are more familiar with the banded winged whitefly which is much easier to control. The banded winged whitefly has faint but visible grayish bands on the wings whereas the silverleaf whitefly is solid white. Silverleaf whitefly is a localized pest. Eggs are oblong, pointed, and yellowish brown. The first stage upon hatching is known as the crawler that moves about searching for a suitable site to attach itself on the underside of the leaf.