Is this Lace Bug damage (rhodie) - Ask Extension
A sun-exposed rhododendron planted next to our Portland house has been looking sadder each year. This year (presumably aggravated by the heat) it's l...
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Is this Lace Bug damage (rhodie) #276153
Asked September 06, 2015, 8:20 PM EDT
A sun-exposed rhododendron planted next to our Portland house has been looking sadder each year. This year (presumably aggravated by the heat) it's looking awful.
I'm wondering if this is lace bug damage.
(Do you have a favorite lace bug-resistant rhodie variety?)
Thanks,
/Bill
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Is your Rhododendron affected by lace bug?
Yes it looks like it has both sun burn and a lace bug infestation. If you want to replace your Rhododendron with one that is lace bug resistant try a large group of rhododendrons that have leaves which are covered in thick fuzz (indumentum) on the back side.
These varieties may be naturally resistant. Since the lace bug attacks by inserting a very long nose into the leaf and sucking out the chlorophyll, the thick fuzz would create a sizeable barrier. Look for Yaku Hybrid Rhododendrons or check the back side of leaves when shopping.
Also there is a publication by Oregon State University on dealing with lace bug infestations that includes a list of lace bug resistant Azaleas - which could be another alternative.
Thanks for your interesting question.
Yes it looks like it has both sun burn and a lace bug infestation. If you want to replace your Rhododendron with one that is lace bug resistant try a large group of rhododendrons that have leaves which are covered in thick fuzz (indumentum) on the back side.
These varieties may be naturally resistant. Since the lace bug attacks by inserting a very long nose into the leaf and sucking out the chlorophyll, the thick fuzz would create a sizeable barrier. Look for Yaku Hybrid Rhododendrons or check the back side of leaves when shopping.
Also there is a publication by Oregon State University on dealing with lace bug infestations that includes a list of lace bug resistant Azaleas - which could be another alternative.
Thanks for your interesting question.
