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Gardening & Landscaping in the Low Desert



Leaf Hoppers in the Low Desert



DESCRIPTION:


Wedge-shaped insects, about 1/8 inch long with jumping legs. They are capable of strong flight. Some species may be serious pests. Image on UC IPM Site

DAMAGE:


They suck the juices from the plant and excrete excess fluids in the form of honeydew. As with aphids, this sugary substance may support the growth of sooty molds. Leaf Hoppers spread Curly Top Virus, the #1 tomato disease in the Southwestern U.S. Young plants are severely stunted and die, while older plants turn yellow, leaves roll upward, fruit production ceases, and plants slowly die. The virus affects more than 150 plant species, including beans, melons and beets.

MANAGEMENT:

Infected plants should be eliminated as soon as possible. There are no resistant varieties available. Because they are so mobile, leafhoppers are difficult to control.

 

For More Information:

• University of Arizona IPM Site: Leaf Hoppers
• University of Arizona Plant Pathology: Curly Top
• University of California IPM Site: SUGARBEET BEET LEAFHOPPER Circulifer tenellus

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