Aphids, thrips and whiteflies are some of the most challenging pests to control and can be detrimental for ornamental plant production if populations are left unchecked. These insects inflict physical damage to plants and can transmit viruses that spread to other crops. To get ahead of potential threats, growers must readily scout for pest damage and use the best treatment for prevention and control.

Identifying Damage

Aphids, thrips and whiteflies use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract fluids from stems, leaves and other plant parts, which leads to distorted growth. These pests typically cause damage by removing phloem sap during feeding, which excretes honeydew and causes the growth of sooty mold fungus on leaf surfaces and transmitting plant viruses. This can result in the following damage to crops:

• Reduced leaf expansion
• Chlorotic spots on top sides of leaves
• Leaf discoloration or silvering
• Leaf loss

Additionally, these pests can transmit tospoviruses, such as impatiens necrotic spot virus (INSV) and tomato-spotted wilt virus (TMSV), which can quickly spread throughout the greenhouse.

Prevention Methods

Growers should follow these cultural practices to prevent the development and spread of these pests:  

• Inspect new plants for pests before introducing them into production areas.
• Examine under leaf surfaces and check for any new growth on plants.
• Use yellow sticky traps near doors and vents to monitor for winged adults.
• Maintain weed-free production areas.
• Add screens to fans, vents and greenhouse openings to prevent pests from entering.

As an additional solution to help growers protect crops from chewing, sucking and soil-dwelling insects,  Mainspring^® Xtra—the latest insecticide from Syngenta in the ornamental market—is formulated with active ingredients cyantraniliprole and thiamethoxam for fast knockdown and broad-spectrum control. Mainspring Xtra also increases plant vigor and supports resistance management strategies.

Learn more about agronomic solutions at GreenCastOnline.com/MainspringXtra.

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