The cycle takes from 2 -3 weeks in warm weather but may take as long as 2 months under cool conditions. The eggs of most species are laid on the under side of the leaves. Once feeding starts it doesn t move about anymore. When the larval stage has completed development it becomes a pupa, a quiet, non-feeding stage. The adult emerges, is capable of flying, mates and the female begins laying eggs.
Whiteflies spend winters in weeds and ornamentals.
Often sources of infestation are infected nursery stock brought in from an area where the whiteflies can easily overwinter. Whitefly adults can be easily carried about on wind currents, though most of their flying is done close to the ground. Control of whiteflies can be difficult and pesticides should be chosen with care. Use an integrated pest management program, combining cultural, biological, mechanical and chemical methods, for control. Natural enemies play an important part in the control of the whitefly population.