Bearberry whiteflies showing up in NC blueberries

(Updated: Aug. 27, 2026, 9:24 p.m.)
underside of a blueberry leaf with 3 dark blue whitefly immatures

We are starting to see bearberry whiteflies showing up in small numbers in some blueberry-growing areas, such as the Ivanhoe area. This post-harvest pest is occasionally found in North Carolina blueberries. We have found only small numbers during our farm visits, and populations are rarely large enough to justify insecticide applications in the state.

blueberry shoot with a leaf hosting a few bearberry whitefly immatures

Bearberry whitefly immatures on the underside of a blueberry (cv. 'Duke') leaf in Sampson County in 2026.

There is limited information about the biology and, most importantly, the economic impact of these whiteflies on blueberries. However, you can find valuable information on this pest's biology, what can be considered a severe infestation, and management options (if needed) here: Whiteflies in Blueberries.