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Plant Protection - Lace Bugs

Lace Bugs were introduced from Japan in the early 1900s and have now spread over the entire East Coast.  Evergreen azaleas, including rhododendrons, are preferred host plants.

Adults and the immature stages that hatch from over-wintering eggs, begin to suck the sap from the undersides of leaves in March.  Dense populations build up in March, April, and May, with a second outbreak in July, August, and September.  Most eggs are deposited on the undersides of leaves in September and October.

Symptoms of damage show as small yellow spots on the upper surface of leaves (‘stippling') and small brown spots (excrement and cast-off skins) on the lower surface.  In heavy infestations the leaves may appear bleached white and drop off.

Control consists of spraying the undersides of the leaves with systemic insecticide such as Acephate (Orthene) for example.  Begin at the very first sign of damage and at 10-day intervals thereafter if needed.  Since the first attacks are usually on the lower leaves, careful inspection of your plants during the Spring and Summer is a necessity in controlling this pest.

READ AND FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS AS IMPROPER USE OF INSECTICIDES MAY AFFECT ANIMAL AND HUMAN HEALTH.