Whitefly

Ridge Gourd

Name: Whitefly

Scientific Name: Bemisia tabaci

Crop: Ridge Gourd

Description:

  • Warm and dry weather conditions are favourable for whitefly infestations. In addition to causing direct damage, whiteflies act as vectors, transmitting various viral diseases.

Damage Symptoms:

  • Sap-sucking by whiteflies causes yellowing and curling of leaves.
  • Honeydew produced by whiteflies leads to the growth of black sooty mould on the shoots.
  • Stunted plant height, reduced plant vigour, and fewer fruits.

Preventive Measures:

  • Install yellow sticky traps in the field.

Control Measures:

  • Spray Imidacloprid (0.5 ml/l) or Acetamiprid (0.2 g/l).
  • Spray Neem Oil.