save my ficus

Ficus Whitefly Threat Increasing as Temperatures Warm

Only one product provides the fast control you need: Safari^® Insecticide

Thanks to rising spring temperatures, fig whitefly—more commonly known as ficus whitefly— populations are beginning to surge in South Florida, raising the threat to ficus trees and hedges (Ficus benjamina and Ficus bengalensis). In fact, because whiteflies increase their populations so rapidly during the spring and summer months, the risk of widespread infestation and rapid defoliation is heightened.

Infestations continue to expand on the southeast coast of Florida, and have recently been detected on the southwest coast, including the Fort Myers and Naples areas. This destructive pest (Singhiella simplex) has already defoliated thousands of ficus hedges in Florida and ruined the appearance and privacy of countless residential landscapes.

As we move toward summer, conditions are becoming optimal for extensive whitefly damage, and you must be proactive to protect your ficus trees and hedges from severe injury. Early detection combined with the fast-acting control of Safari Insecticide are the keys to saving your ficus plants.

Early whitefly infestation can be difficult to detect with the naked eye, so it is important to call your local lawn care professional to come evaluate your plants if you have any doubt. If you recognize any of the signs of active whitely infestation noted below, populations are well established and you should call your lawn care professional immediately to request treatment with Safari Insecticide. Only Safari offers the speed of control that is essential to prevent complete defoliation and, ultimately, branch and hedge dieback.

University research demonstrates Safari’s effective control

In a University of Florida study on ficus trees, by 14 days after a soil application, Safari had reduced ficus whitefly infestation by an average of 64% compared to untreated trees, and 35% compared to ficus treated with another soil applied product. At 8 weeks after treatment, Safari was giving 99% control of ficus whitefly, and tree quality was visibly improved. Excellent control was still evident at 8 months after application. Note: University experts recommend soil application as the most effective treatment for ficus whiteflies.