Whiteflies on Gardenia

— Written by Thomas Glasgow | March 26, 2021 (Updated: March 26, 2021, 8:22 a.m.)

Sooty mold on gardenia leaves is most likely a result of whitefly infestation, in all likelihood the citrus whitefly. The images below were taken on 3/26/21 from a sample collected near Havelock, NC. Be sure to inspect your gardenias now for both the sooty mold and the presence of the insects.

Leaf underside — Numerous small, flattened, yellow/green structures are seen on the leaf underside; these are the whitefly nymphs.

Nymphal stage — Close up; a nymphal stage, typical of the 3rd instar stage. Only one more stage to go (fourth instar) before adulthood.

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Written By

Thomas Glasgow County Extension Director, Horticulture Agent

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