Whitefly infestation primarily occurs in cotton plants during July. High temperatures and low humidity are favourable for the multiplication of this pest.
Damage Symptoms:
White chlorotic spots appear on leaves, which later coalesce to form reddish-yellow areas extending from the veins to the outer edges.
Sooty mould develops due to the honeydew secreted by nymphs and adult whiteflies.
Severe infestation causes premature defoliation, reducing the number and quality of squares and bolls, resulting in poor boll formation.
Whiteflies also act as vectors for the leaf-curl virus.
Preventive Measures:
Install sticky traps in the field.
Control Measures:
Foliar sprays with monocrotophos (1.5 ml/l), imidacloprid (0.4 ml/l), or methyl demeton (2 ml/l).
