Psyllids begin showing up in the springtime and will hop around on different host plants has temperatures change. They are often confused with aphids due to the fact they are similar in shape, color and cause similar damage. The main noticeable difference between aphids and psyllids is aphids can easily be controlled by hosing off weekly, psyllids are not so easily controlled. They are closer to the leaf, leave crystal-like deposits (excrement) on the foliage that often acts as a protective shield. These barely-visible insects can be very devastating to a host. Arizona and honey mesquites can have new growth deformed for the season and cascalotes can be defoliated in a matter of weeks if not properly managed. Besides chemical treatments, you can help manage populations by limiting irrigation or trying not to over-water which can promote new succulent growth, which is attractive to the psyllid. Monitor for these little guys starting in February continuing into the summer months. They may go away for the hottest period of the summer (who wants to hang out on a leaf at 110?) but resurface again in the fall.
Spider mites NOT Welcome
Mid-March and already spider mites have made their mark on Italian cypress and oaks. Since we had a warm fall, followed by a mild winter and no rain in March (so far) the Two-spotted spider mite has settled in and started sucking plant juices earlier in this season than expected. At this point in the season, look for copperish leaf discoloration or overall browning and death of a branch. If populations grow, webbing will start to be noticed, usually starting at the base of the petiole and the underside of the leaf and defoliation may be seen. Spider mites love dusty leaves so hose off your cypress, oaks and rosemary regularly to help keep populations low moving into the summer months. If you need help with a spider mite management program for your properties, please send me an email and we can discuss management strategies ideal for your situation.