These insects, also known as froghoppers, appear in the spring. Spittlebug eggs, laid in the fall, survive the winter to hatch when the weather warms in the spring. The young spittlebugs, called nymphs, produce a foamy froth that protects them from sun and predators. This froth envelops the nymphs completely while they suck sap from the tender stems and leaves. The adult spittlebugs are not as damaging as the nymphs. The adults are ΒΌ inch long, pale yellow to dark brown, and winged. They hop or fly away quickly when disturbed. Spittlebugs seldom harm plants, but if the infestation is very heavy, the plant may be stunted. Their presence is usually objectionable only for cosmetic reasons.
Wash spittlebugs from plants with a garden hose. If plants are heavily infested, spray with an insecticide containing malathion, acephate, or methoxychlor. Make sure that the plant is listed on the product label. Repeated treatments are not usually necessary.
