Whitefly

Symptom

Throughout the growth stage of the plant, it is susceptible to destruction by whiteflies, which serve as vectors for viral diseases that cause leaf curling. Both the nymphs and adult whiteflies feed on the plant's sap from the underside of the leaves, leading to yellowing, curling, and wilting of the foliage. In severe infestations, leaves may drop prematurely, disrupting photosynthesis and weakening the plant. Additionally, whiteflies excrete a sticky, sugary substance known as honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold fungi. This mold can spread across the entire leaf surface, further hindering the plant’s ability to absorb sunlight and perform photosynthesis. The continuous feeding on plant sap results in nutrient deficiencies, stunted growth, and, if infestation occurs during the fruiting stage, a significant reduction in both yield and quality.