Leafhoppers
can cause damage to a lawn but are considered more of a nuisance than a
threat to a lawn. The adults are wedge-shaped and can vary in color
from green to brown. Usually they are between 2-3 centimeters in length
and move very quickly when disturbed. These lawn pests feed by sucking
juice from the grass leaves or stems. Initially an infested leaf will
have a lighter green appearance and eventually a yellow and then brown
coloration. As the insect feeds, the vascular system of the grass plant
is affected. The feeding interferes with the translocation of nutrients
and water causing tissues within the plant to wilt. If the infestation
level increases, feeding can result in severe thinning of the turf
grass. As with most insects, the leafhopper prefers warm, sunny areas
and damage can be misdiagnosed as drought stress. If the leafhoppers
are occurring in a large enough number, insecticides can be used to
control them.
Using
the services of a certified pesticide applicator will ensure the safety
of everyone involved.
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