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dropping azalea leaves #160374

Asked November 13, 2013, 6:36 PM EST

I have 2 evergreen azaleas that have looked very healthy for the last several years, until a few weeks ago. Now most of the leaves are turning yellow, some with holes. (picture attached) I haven't noticed any insects on them, but is this possibly the azalea lacebug problem? Advice?

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Your azalea leaves do appear to have lacebug damage. The white appearance of the live leaf is where the insects have sucked the juices, and the black speckling on the underside is fecal matter. This is a fairly new pest in our area. Oregon State University has published a gardening tip article, "Be on the lookout for azalea-damaging pest this spring", http://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/be-lookout-azalea-damaging-pest-spring. A fact sheet for home gardeners is also available: "Azalea Lacebug by Robin Rosetta" http://oregonstate.edu/dept/nurspest/Azalea_lacebug_2012_owner_version.pdf. Included are photos and treatment options.

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