Alabama cucurbit growers are already seeing increased whitefly populations in their fall crops. Whiteflies transmit cucurbit leaf crumple virus can cause severe symptoms on infected plants includine yellowing of leaves, leaf crumpling, plant stunting and overall plant decline. Squash, zucchini, and cucumber are susceptible to viruses transmitted by whiteflies.
Whitefly vectored plant virus
A number of whitefly-transmitted viruses, including cucurbit leaf crumple virus, cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus, cucurbit chlorotic yellows virus, and squash vein yellowing virus, are able to infect and cause losses in cucurbit crops.
South Florida Pest and Disease news
The South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline is a newsletter published by Florida Extension Agents. In October, the newsletter reported on crop damage caused by Hurricane Ian, whitefly observations on watermelons, Cucurbit leaf crumple virus in watermelons, and reports of gummy stem blight on watermelon in Southwest Florida.
Whiteflies on Cucurbits | AgNet
“The buildup of whiteflies is concerning since growers have planted their fall crops. Whiteflies can cause feeding injury issues in vegetables and transmit two viruses: cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus. Vegetables like squash, zucchini, cucumber, cantaloupe and snap beans are most susceptible to these viruses.”
Whiteflies reported in South Florida
In the Central Florida area, whitefly populations are increasing yet remain low in squash.In SW Florida, growers and scouts are reporting high levels of whitefly adults and nymphs in melons, and squash.
On the East Coast, whitefly populations are moderate in cucumber. Reports from Homestead indicate that whitefly populations are mostly sporadic in squash.
Whitefly Pressure Varies Across Florida
Whitefly pressure has been increasing to high levels in Southern Florida which is normal at this time of year. Whiteflies are vectors for viruses. Management of whiteflies later in the season depends on early suppression of whitefly populations.
Vectors and disease present in Florida cucurbits
Florida cucurbit growers are reporting whiteflies, gummy stem blight, powdery mildew, and cucurbit downy mildew.
Florida Cucurbit pest report for January 2022
Insecticide Rotation & Management of Whiteflies
Insecticide rotation is key in long-term management of whiteflies. Whiteflies can transmit cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus.
