These are likely to be whiteflies. You often notice them when you brush against a plant, and a small cloud of tiny white insects take flight. These are sap-sucking pests that can weaken plants by draining their energy, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and reduced yields. They also leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew, which can lead to sooty mould, further harming plants.
Whiteflies thrive in warm, humid conditions and are particularly troublesome in summer. They commonly target leafy vegetables like kale, tomatoes, and cucumbers, as well as ornamentals like hibiscus and fuchsias.
To manage them organically, spray affected plants with a soap, oil or pyrethrum spray which you can pick up at your local garden centre. It’s important to make contact with the insect so coat the undersides of leaves where they feed. Regular monitoring and prompt action will help keep whiteflies in check.
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