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Lace bug
Lace bug
Lace bugs are sap-sucking insects. Feeding damage can cause leaves to have a stippled appearance. In severe infestations, the leaves become almost white, many of them drying completely and dropping off. The undersides of the leaves are also disfigured by the black, dry, shiny excrement and cast skins of the insects. Look closely for the small insects on the undersides of the leaves.
Azalea lace bug is one of the most common lace bugs and is a destructive pest of azaleas. Female lace bugs lay groups of eggs on the underside of the leaves in September and October. These eggs overwinter and hatch during March and April. The populations build from spring through autumn, with about four generations possible. A large population of lace bugs can be established during July, August and September. It is quite possible to find all stages of the lace bug together under a leaf during this time. For more information about the Azalea lace bug, consult UT Publication 290-E, "Azalea Lace Bug", which can be found here.
Management Strategies
Management Strategies
Repeated applications of an insecticide are usually needed to effectively control lace bugs. The first application should be made as soon as nymphs appear in the spring, followed by a second application seven to 10 days later. Applications should be repeated at monthly intervals as needed. Thorough coverage of the undersides of the leaves where the insects are found is essential if good control is to be expected.
For chemical control recommendations, consult the Insect and Plant Disease Control Manual, UT Extension Publication 1690, found here. Please contact your local Extension office for specific pesticide recommendations.
Hawthorn lace bugs overwinter as adults under bark and other protected places on hawthorn, firethorn, cotoneaster, and serviceberry. They move onto leaves in the spring and lay their cone-shaped black eggs. It is best to control adults with insecticide sprays or soil drenches before egg laying. A spray treatment will control adults but eggs will hatch soon. Nymphs will need a separate application unless a long-lasting systemic insecticide is used.
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