The Bio Wash product will also work. Products are available at the Products for pest control, lawn and garden care are available in independent garden retailers that stock organic products and online at the Natural Organic Warehouse (NOW).
common name: Leafhopper, Planthopper
scientific name: Order Homoptera, family Cicadellidae, many species
size: Adult--1/10" to 1/2"
identification: Adults are distinctive wedge-shaped insects with triangular heads. Most are brown or green, but some are brightly decorated. All have well-developed hind legs for jumping. Nymphs are very similar to adults, but paler in color and wingless.
biology and life cycle: Incomplete metamorphosis. Adults overwinter and lay eggs in rows or clusters when leaves emerge. Eggs hatch in ten to fourteen days, nymphs develop for one to four weeks. Two to five generations a year.
habitat: Fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
feeding habits: Adults and nymphs suck juices from stems and undersides of leaves, causing a mottled look.
economic importance: Toxic saliva can cause stunty leaf growth or warty, crinkled, or rolled edges. Some are vectors of plant disease.
natural control: Maintain healthy plants. Protect natural enemies such as parasitic wasps and flies, damsel bugs, minute pirate bugs, lady beetles, lacewings, and spiders. Birds, frogs, lizards, and insectivorous insects.
organic control: Strong blasts of water and citrus oil products. Horticultural or plant oil for heavy infestations.
insight:
