TIDBITS
The decorative white fluff on a mealybug is a protective wax coat for the soft bodied insect which is hiding underneath.
Whiteflies are not true flies. Flies have two wings; whiteflies have four wings.

PREVENTION
Inspect new plants carefully. Don't purchase infected plants.
Over fertilizing with nitrogen makes plants more susceptible to attacks. Choose slow releasing fertilizers or divide applications over several weeks.

CONTROLS
Rub off insects by hand using an alcohol-dipped cotton swab or old toothbrush.
Prune off severely infested portions of the plant.
Spray infested areas with insecticidal soap. Cover the undersides of the leaves where eggs are laid. Read and follow label directions, some plants are sensitive to soap sprays.
Spray infested areas with highly refined horticultural oils, which are gentle on beneficial insects (mix 4 teaspoons of oil in 1 quart of water). Cover the undersides of the leaves where eggs are laid. Read the label. Some plants are sensitive; follow label directions.
Trap whiteflies with yellow sticky traps.