Abstract
In Aug. 2007, the Miami–Dade County Extension office received numerous phone calls about a new problem with Ficus hedges. The cause was identified as the fig whitefly [Singhiella simplex (Singh)] in Oct. 2007. By Nov. 2007, a management protocol was developed, which included the use of a soil drench with a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide to help preserve natural enemies. Because there were many questions about application techniques from industry professionals, reports of misapplications and concerns about environmental impacts, the Miami–Dade County Extension horticultural staff decided that the best way to educate all possible clients was with a bilingual video demonstration of proper application techniques. The video was produced in-house using Extension educators and an Extension Advisory Committee member who is also an industry professional as the “talent.” It includes information for both homeowners and professionals on proper methods of applying a soil drench. This was converted into segments and adapted for downloading via either a dial-up or a DSL connection and is posted on the Miami–Dade County Extension website. It has also been used in several workshops.
