Lacebugs

Lacebugs are small insects (about 1/8 inch) that damage several ornamentals by sucking fluids out of the leaves. The damage shows up as a discoloration of the leaves, leaving them almost silver. It is similar in appearance to mite damage, except that the clorotic spots are larger. The most evident sign of present insects is a brownish-black, tar-like residue underneath the leaves. Feeding insects excrete this material. Usually the insects are rarely seen because they are small and appear on the undersides of the leaves.
Adults have lace-like, clear wings, but may be brown, tan, or white as there are over 27 different species in the U.S. Immature lacebugs are dark, wingless insects with spines radiating from the edges of their bodies. They move in a sideways manner, but are rarely seen. Eggs are inserted into the leaves along the midribs, on the undersides. Cone-like caps cover the eggs, projecting out from the bottoms of the leaves.

Several generations are present each year, the first generation usually in May, with most lacebugs over-wintering in egg form. (However, some lacebugs over-winter as adults, under bark of trees and shrubs.)

HOSTS
There are over 50 known hosts, but in our area the most common are Andromeda, Azalea, Beech, Birch, Chrysanthemum, Cotoneaster, Hawthorn, Linden, Oak, Pyracantha, Rhododendron, and Sycamore.

CONTROL
Lacebugs can be controlled with a variety of contact or systemic insecticides. Contact insecticides must be applied to the undersides of the leaves where the lacebug will come into contact with the insecticide. For this reason, systemic insecticides which are absorbed through the foliage and subsequently ingested by the lacebug, are often more practical for control of this pest. Insecticides should be applied anytime from May-September where lacebugs are active.

Systemic
Ortho Systemic Insect Killer, Bayer Advanced Rose & Flower Insect Killer
Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insect Control

Contact
Sevin, Pyrethrin, Insecticidal Soap, Horticultural Oil, Permethrin, Resmetherin
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS WHEN APPLYING ANY PESTICIDES.