HPIPM:Potato Leafhopper

Authors:Michael J. Brewer, Frank B. Peairs[1], revision, & Jay D. Donahue

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

The potato leafhopper, Empoasca fabae (Harris), occasionally damages alfalfa in our area. They feed on weeds during the early spring, and then adults fly into alfalfa fields where several generations may be completed during the rest of the growing season. Adult leafhoppers are green, wedge shaped insects about 1/8 inch long. Immature leafhoppers are shaped similarly, but are smaller and do not have fully developed wings. Adult leafhoppers are quite active, usually jumping or flying away when disturbed.

Plant Response and Damage

Leafhoppers feed on plant sap at leaf tips. A toxin is introduced into the plant during feeding, causing small yellowish or purple triangular areas. Heavy infestations may cause leaves to become curled or stunted, and can cause "hopper burn," in which the whole stand is yellowish and stunted. Seedling plants may die under heavy attack by leafhoppers. Leafhoppers are usually more abundant during second and third cuttings, but do not economically damage alfalfa every year.

Management Approaches

Cultural Methods

Harvest will kill the egg and small nymphal stages of potato leafhopper, so can be used in place of chemical control if the alfalfa is taller than 12 inches or is approaching bloom. Surviving leafhoppers will often be few enough that populations do not build to economic levels after cutting.

Host plant resistance

Some varieties are moderately resistant to leafhopper feeding, and if acceptable otherwise (in terms of agronomic superiority and disease resistance), can be planted in place of susceptible varieties.

Biological control

Natural enemies of potato leafhoppers do not suppress leafhopper populations satisfactorily during outbreak years.

Chemical control

Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the sponsors of this web site assume no liability for the suggested use of any chemicals noted in the management section. Contact your local pest management personnel for current information on labeled pesticides that can be used for the intended plant disease, insect pest or weed.