The black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata) produces small yellow flowers with black throats that give them their eye. The twining vines make excellent tender perennials in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 10 and 11 and grow as annuals or as houseplants in cooler climates. These low-maintenance vines are easy to grow, but are susceptible to a few pests, especially when grown indoors.
Whiteflies resemble tiny moths, and prefer to feed and breed on the underside of plant leaves. A plant infested with whiteflies sends up clouds of fleeing pests when you disturb it. These pests transmit harmful viruses and secrete honeydew. If not kept in check, they can cause sooty mold to form, and the viruses can lead to plant death. Whiteflies multiply rapidly, as a female can lay up to 500 over a two-month period.
The female scale loses its legs and remains stationary on the underside of leaves. It looks more like a lump on the plant than an insect because of its protective hard shell layer. These pests suck out plant sap using their piercing mouth parts. This weakens the plant, leading to yellowing of the leaves and leaf drop. Like the whiteflies, scale also secretes honeydew that causes the fungal growth, known as sooty mold.
Spider mites get their name because they are eight-legged, spider-like creatures and create webs that cover infested plant leaves and flowers. These pests prefer hot, dry climates and often are found on indoor plants. Their piercing mouth parts feed on plants, and cause stippling and yellowing of leaves. Heavily infested plants can experience leaf drop and death. The spider mites, like the whiteflies, multiply rapidly and the females can lay up to 200 eggs within 30 days.
To control outdoor infestations, keep weeds down and encourage natural enemies, such as parasitic wasps. Indoors, use screens in windows to keep pests out and isolate any infested plants. Using a reflective material, such as aluminum foil, under plants can detour whiteflies. If you use pesticides, make sure they are intended for use on the black-eyed Susan vine and follow label instructions carefully. For any question about pest control, contact your county Cooperative Extension office.
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