The Southwest Florida Pest and disease hotline reports from growers and scouts in Florida on whitefly numbers for adults and nymphs in cucurbits and other vegetable crops. In Southwest Florida, low levels of virus are present in melons.
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.
Fall Watermelon Production Not Recommended in North Florida
University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences scientists do not recommend that Florida watermelon growers grow watermelons in the fall. This assessment is attributed to the multiple variables growers must overcome including weather, high disease pressure and whitefly infestations.
Whitefly infestations vary across Florida
The October newsletter from the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline reports that whitefly infestations are widely present across central Florida. They are low to moderate in cucumber and squash. Populations are very low in watermelon.
Whiteflies a Factor in South Florida Crops
According to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline, up to eight whitefly adults have been observed on melons in the Immokalee, Florida area. Scouts report between 15% to 60% of plants having one or multiple adults.
Florida vegetable specialist recommend virus prevention strategy
Whiteflies cause feeding injury issues in vegetables and transmit two viruses: cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus. Sanitation of vegetable crops susceptible to whiteflies remains a key management strategy for Florida producers.
Whiteflies Vary in Impact in Florida Vegetables This Fall | VSCNews
Growers and scouts in Southwest Florida report that whitefly pressure has declined with recent rains.
South Carolina Grower Update | Sept. 21, 2020
Clemson Cooperative Extension reports whitefly damage on squash in this weeks issue of “The South Carolina Grower Fruit and Vegetable News”.
Use Resistant Varieties When Possible to Protect Against Whiteflies | VSCNews
“Whiteflies cause feeding injury issues in vegetables and transmit two new viruses: cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus.”
