How Can I Control Leafhoppers?

Do you want to control leafhoppers using the biological control method?

Do you want to control leafhoppers using low-risk (organic) insecticides?

Do you want to control leafhoppers using diatomaceous earth and reflective mulches?

Do you want to control leafhoppers using insecticides?

General predators may have some impact. In grapes, rely on specific natural enemies. General Predators like green lacewing, ladybugs, and assassin bugs will consume all stages of leafhoppers but are less effective in controlling adults.

Insecticidal soap or narrow-range oil can be applied to infested foliage to reduce high populations of leafhopper nymphs but will not reduce virus transmission significantly. Thorough coverage of leaf undersides is important. It is very difficult to control adults effectively and no control is recommended.

Diatomaceous earth and kaolin clay can be applied to leaf and fruit surfaces to deter leafhopper feeding. Both provide a physical barrier as well as insecticidal properties once leafhoppers come in contact with them. Place straw or aluminum foil under crops. These reflective mulches will confuse leafhoppers.

If immediate control is necessary, use fast-acting insecticides like Pyrethrins or Azadirachtin to suppress leafhopper populations. Insecticides can offer you immediate control and enough of a knockdown that beneficials may be introduced later for more lasting control.

Clear the garden of all plant debris in which leafhoppers can shelter. Remove host weeds such as wild mustard. Remove plants that show signs of aster yellow or beet curly top so that these diseases do not overwinter in the garden. Row covers and shade cloth (Harvest Guard) can be used as physical barriers to limit leafhopper access to plants. Wash nymphs and adults from plants with a stiff spray of water.