Whiteflies are increasing to high levels in Southwest Florida, which is normal this time of year. It is especially true for older tomato plants and melon crops, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline.
However, population levels are much lower in other areas, including in tomato and squash plants in central Florida. Whiteflies have only been observed occasionally in the Everglades Agricultural Area, which is atypical this time of year.
Moderate levels are being seen in tomato, eggplant and cucumber on the east coast and in tomatoes, beans and squash in Homestead, Florida.
Whiteflies are most concerning because of the viruses they can transmit. Respondents report that Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) pressure has increased in Southwest Florida, reaching moderate to high levels.
Growers and scouts around Homestead report that TYLCV is now widespread in tomato fields. Tospovirus-like symptoms, presumably Tomato Chlorotic Spot Virus (TCSV), are also reported in younger tomato fields, including in some varieties that are normally resistant.Â