Whiteflies are common piercing-sucking pests that pose significant challenges due to their rapid reproduction, long-distance migration, and quick development of resistance to insecticides. What are the most effective insecticides for controlling whiteflies, and how should they be used? Let's take a closer look.
Types and Usage of Effective Insecticides for Whiteflies
1. Dinotefuran
Dinotefuran is a new-generation neonicotinoid insecticide. It is effective against whiteflies, Bemisia tabaci, rice planthoppers, aphids, thrips, beetles, termites, and houseflies.
Usage: For example, 20% soluble granules of dinotefuran can be used to protect cucumbers in greenhouses from whiteflies. Use 30-50 grams per mu (0.067 hectares), diluted in 15-30 liters of water, and spray evenly.
2. Imidacloprid
Imidacloprid is a chloronicotinyl compound and a novel insecticide. It effectively controls whiteflies, leafhoppers, Bemisia tabaci, thrips, flea beetles, and lygus bugs.
Usage: Use 20 milliliters of 5% imidacloprid EC (emulsifiable concentrate) per mu, diluted in 30 liters of water, and spray evenly. A follow-up spray 3-7 days later can extend the effectiveness to over 15 days.
3. Acetamiprid
Acetamiprid is a broad-spectrum, novel neonicotinoid insecticide targeting piercing-sucking pests like whiteflies, thrips, and aphids.
Usage: Use 2000 times dilution of 10% soluble liquid acetamiprid for even spraying, or irrigate with 2000-3000 times dilution during planting.
4. Spirotetramat
Spirotetramat is a novel ketoenol insecticide effective against various piercing-sucking pests such as aphids, thrips, whiteflies, psyllids, and scale insects.
Usage: At the early stage of whitefly infestation, use 35-40 milliliters per mu of 22% spirotetramat and thiamethoxam SC (suspension concentrate), diluted in 15 liters of water. Spray every 7 days for 2-3 times.
5. Pyriproxyfen
Pyriproxyfen is a juvenile hormone analog and a chitin synthesis inhibitor, widely used to control whiteflies and scale insects.
Usage: Use 8-10 milliliters of 10% pyriproxyfen EC to achieve good ovicidal effects.
Insecticide Application Methods and Dosages
| Insecticide | Application Rate | Dilution | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dinotefuran | 30-50 grams per mu | 20% soluble granules, 15-30 liters of water | Spray evenly |
| Imidacloprid | 20 milliliters per mu | 5% EC, 30 liters of water | Follow up in 3-7 days |
| Acetamiprid | – | 10% soluble liquid, 2000-3000 times dilution | Spray or irrigate |
| Spirotetramat | 35-40 milliliters per mu | 22% SC, 15 liters of water | Spray every 7 days, 2-3 times |
| Pyriproxyfen | 8-10 milliliters | 10% EC | Ovicidal effects |
Conclusion
There are many effective insecticides for controlling whiteflies, each with its own specific targets such as adults, nymphs, or eggs. Understanding and using these insecticides appropriately can greatly enhance control effectiveness and reduce whitefly infestations.
