Sampling and Managing Whiteflies in Georgia Cotton

UGA Extension contacts:
Phillip Roberts, Michael Toews, and Apurba Barman

Whiteflies are common and recurrent insect pests of cotton in Georgia. The severity of whitefly damage varies from year to year based on the size of the pest population. The most abundant species of whitefly found infesting cotton in Georgia is Bemisia tabaci, commonly known as the silverleaf whitefly (SLWF) or sweet potato whitefly. Another species, bandedwinged whitefly (Trialeurodes abutiloneus), may also be present in Georgia cotton. This publication highlights whitefly biology, damage, sampling procedures, control methods, and tips for managing risk in cotton.

Published by University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. For more information or guidance, contact your local Extension office.

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