Potato Leafhopper - Nursery IPM

**Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae)**

Does not overwinter in NJ, but is carried-in by upper atmospheric winds from the gulf coast states
Feeding damage can mimic herbicide injury
- Distortion and discoloration of foliage
Move with a sideways motion characteristic of the species
Have piercing-sucking mouthparts and release a toxin while feeding that restricts movement within vascular tissues
Causes disorganization of vascular bundles and produces an enlargement and proliferation of cells
- Causes “witches brooms” on terminal stems
Transmission of leafhopper saliva (and potentially bacteria, phytoplasmas, viruses) into the vascular tissue can trigger a wound response by the plant, causing scorch-like symptoms
4-5 generations per year
5 nymphal instar stages per generation
Eggs are laid in midrib of upper foliage on host plants during each generation
Eggs do not survive winter temperatures
Causes “hopperburn“
- Can range from light bronze discoloration to dark brown, almost black
- Symptoms mimic drought stress and will become more pronounced if drought is present
- Browning and necrosis along leaf margins
- Leaf curling, stunting, and V-shaped wedge discolorations (initially brown or yellow)
Host plants: Maple, oak, birch, ash, and others

Natural predators: lady beetles, lacewings, minute pirate bugs
Create wildflower strips or hedgerows to support beneficial insect populations
Inspect undersides of leaves for adults or nymphs after symptoms become apparent at branch terminals
Use resistant plant varieties
Use row covers to protect young plants
Reduce plant stress
Ensure proper moisture and irrigation

Contact insecticides:
- Pyrethroids [3A]: –thrins
Systemic insecticides:
- Neonicotinoids [4A]: imidacloprid, dinotefuran
- Organophosphates [1B]: acephate (translaminar)
Considerations:
- Will harm non-target species