Leafhopper - Ask Extension
In a small garden in our front yard, leaves of zinnias in particular have been eaten or otherwise damaged. I think this is from leafhoppers. What is...
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Leafhopper #765710
Asked August 04, 2021, 1:53 PM EDT
In a small garden in our front yard, leaves of zinnias in particular have been eaten or otherwise damaged. I think this is from leafhoppers. What is best for eliminating leafhoppers, particularly in next year's flowers. From a bit of looking, some recommend pyrethrin based treatment and clearing out all plant material at the end of the growing season. Should pesticides be avoided while bees are active on flowers in the garden? Generally, what do you recommend?
Thanks.
Ron
St. Louis County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hello Ron, happy to help.
It would help to see what you're seeing. Maybe it's aster yellows but is it on ornamentals or vegetables? Nonetheless, here is some great information about leafhoppers and control methods to consider.
Good-luck!
It would help to see what you're seeing. Maybe it's aster yellows but is it on ornamentals or vegetables? Nonetheless, here is some great information about leafhoppers and control methods to consider.
Good-luck!
Maybe the culprit is not leafhoppers. Here is a picture of lower leaves on one zinnia plant. See what you think. Most of the damaged leaves were discarded, but I did find this one to show.
Thanks.
Ron
Hello again,
With the damage that low on the plant I'd hazard a guess that it's slugs. I understand they're prevalent in your county. If you're seeing new damage each morning, it's probably slugs.
The damage could also be caused by other insect larva or even grasshoppers. You'd have to see the culprit to know exactly what's eating those leaves.
Good-luck!
With the damage that low on the plant I'd hazard a guess that it's slugs. I understand they're prevalent in your county. If you're seeing new damage each morning, it's probably slugs.
The damage could also be caused by other insect larva or even grasshoppers. You'd have to see the culprit to know exactly what's eating those leaves.
Good-luck!
Thanks! This Iowa post on slugs had a telling picture and mentioned zinnias
I went out in fog and mist this morning and found several. I am instituting other control measures.
Thanks again.
Ron.
Ron,
Good detective work.
EC
Good detective work.
EC
This morning I found 8 slugs on plants and 16 slugs under rocks that ring the garden. Thanks again for putting me on the right track!
Ron
