Apple leafhopper

The apple leafhopper (Edwardsiana froggatti) is an occasional pest in commercial apple and pear orchards. Infestation tends to be worse during dry years and in orchards where few insecticides are used, such as in organic systems.

Pest identification

Adult apple leafhoppers are 3–4 mm long and are pale to bright yellow. Nymphs are small, wingless and whitish-green. They are usually found on the underside of older leaves.

Damage

Apple leafhoppers can cause leaf distortion and mottling. If the infestation is severe, the apple leafhopper can cause premature leaf drop.

Monitoring

Monitor for apple leafhopper if the weather forecast is for a dry season or if the insect was a problem in previous seasons.

Management

Cultural and physical: good orchard weed management will help reduce the potential for apple leafhopper infestations.

Biological: the introduced parasitoid, Anagrus armatus, has been effective as a biocontrol agent for apple leafhopper in Tasmania. However, its status on mainland Australia is unknown.

Chemical: refer to the Orchard plant protection guide for chemical suggestions.