White flies are among the most common cannabis pests that can give both commercial growers and hobbyists a huge headache. These bugs on marijuana plants look like tiny ash flakes swirling around and lay their eggs on cannabis leaves and the top of the soil. These marijuana pests appear in big numbers but are not very hard to get rid of. White flies can cause damage by sucking sap from cannabis plants and may also carry viruses that cause disease.

What are White Flies?

Despite their name, white flies are not a real type of fly. These soft-bodied, winged insects are closely related to aphids, which explains why their damage resembles that of an aphid infestation.

As white flies suck out sap, plants release honeydew which can further contribute to a mold problem. Your plants will droop, lose vigor and have a spotty look on the leaves. Leaves may have a sticky feeling as well. If you’re not sure if you have white flies, shake the leaves gently – the white flies will then fly around for a bit before settling back on the leaves.

Just like spider mites, white flies like to lay their eggs on the underside of leaves. Eggs take around 7-10 days to hatch. Once hatched, the pupate will stay in an area where the food source is good, and then it will begin to feed on the leaves.

If your cannabis plants are affected during late flowering or close to harvest, be sure to use the safest means of control to guard your health.

How to Prevent White Flies from Infesting Your Cannabis Plants

Here are some ways NOT to get these bugs on marijuana plants:

• Do not overwater potted plants. Allow the soil to dry between waterings and provide good drainage.
• Put sticky traps up when you think you may have white flies. That way you can correctly identify them when they get stuck.

If you already have white flies, you can use an organic insecticidal soap to stop them from flying and infecting other plants. It also stops them from laying new eggs. If you use soap, reapply weekly for best results.

If you want to get rid of white flies fluttering and destroying your cannabis babies, Ant & Garden Pest Control in Beaverton Oregon can put an end to your white fly problem permanently. Contact us today!