Knowledgebase

hackberry nipple galls #219705

Asked November 06, 2014, 4:56 PM EST

I live in Plano - and we have a dry creek bed behind our property - with a lot of trees.  I have lived here for 10 years and in the last 3 years the infestation of these bugs is incredible.  We can not even be on our patio during the afternoon/evening.  What research I have done says there is nothing that can be done to eliminate them.  I am hoping you will have a better answer.  I wonder is a mosquito zapper would attack them and zap them.  I would like to find a non toxic method if there is one.  Thank you for reponding.

Collin County Texas

Expert Response

Our Entomologist, Mike Merchant, posted on his blog this time in 2012 an article address this problem. http://insectsinthecity.blogspot.com/2012/11/hackberry-psyllids-in-homes.html I have never heard of this insect causing any major problems, and it appears they are just being a nuisance.

If they are attracted to light on your patio, then maybe the bug zapper would be effective. The freeze tonight may solve the problem for you, as I expect many of the insect will decrease in population and activity.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 11, 2014, 4:14 PM EST

Loading ...