For the next six months (until the end of April), the City of Miami is recommending only natural controls for the current whitefly infestation of ficus trees. After six months we will reevaluate the situation. Six months will allow beneficial/predacious insects to control the whitefly population. We do not recommend spraying trees in urban areas as this will kill beneficial insects, increase the likelihood of future infestations, and endanger the public.  This is consistent with recommendations from arborists and agencies which we have consulted.  

Public Works will not be issuing any tree removal permits for ficus trees infested by whiteflies.   This position is due to the likelihood of the trees surviving the infestation.  If a property owner(s) would like to remove a dead infested tree, Public Works will proceed as per the Tree Ordinance. As part of the removal application, Public Works will also provide a list of recommended trees that will increase the variety of tree species throughout the City and so that future infestations would be less drastic.

For container plants and small hedges, we recommend an insecticidal soap treatment which can be purchased at most garden centers. If community members lose hedges, we recommend they replace them with native hedges such as cocoplum or stoppers. For further information please contact your local NETarea office, or the Public Works department at 305-416-1200.