Leaffooted bug blog post

Insect Pest Control: How to Manage the Leaf-Footed Bug in Your Garden

Leaf-footed bugs are approximately 1 inch long, some with a white zigzag pattern on their wings. They have long legs similar to a cricket with an oval shaped body. They are recognizable by their hind legs which look leaf-like. They have piercing mouthparts which probe into plants to suck their juices. This can cause discoloration and damage to the plants.
Leaf-footed bugs are approximately 1 inch long, some with a white zigzag pattern on their wings. They have long legs similar to a cricket with an oval shaped body. They are recognizable by their hind legs which look leaf-like. They have piercing mouthparts which probe into plants to suck their juices. This can cause discoloration and damage to the plants.

Treatment Options:

  • Hand-picking and squishing or placing them in a soapy water bucket is a great way to get rid of these pests.
  • Companion planting can help deter leaf-footed bugs. Sunflowers are especially good at attracting these pests away from other plants.
  • Another good prevention is to remove excess weeds and grass around the garden areas as this can help to attract them.
  • Placing insect netting (floating row covers) over your garden is the best way to prevent leaf-footed bugs from attacking your plants.
  • Diatomaceous earth can also be laid down around your garden to help get rid of them.
  • Put your beneficial critters to work! Attract or relocate certain critters to try and help battle your leaf-footed bugs. Leaf-footed bug predators include tachinid flies, birds, spiders, assassin bugs, snakes, lizards, and frogs.
  • Applying neem oil can also be effective for the nymph stage of leaf-footed bugs. Make sure not to apply the neem oil when the temperature is above 90, or else you could suffocate your plant!

Plants to Watch:

Leaf-footed bugs are big fans especially of fruit. Be sure to keep a close eye out!

 

Learn more about growing over 80 different foods, including how to manage various pests in our FREE iOS, Android, or new Universal Web App!

leaffootedbug

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn

2 thoughts on “Insect Pest Control: How to Manage the Leaf-Footed Bug in Your Garden

Leave a Reply to Missy. JordanCancel reply

On Key

Related Posts

🛠 How to Build a DIY PVC Dome Hoophouse

Want to protect your garden from frost, pests, or harsh weather? Learn how to build a simple and affordable DIY PVC dome hoophouse using just a few materials from your local hardware store. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to create a reusable garden cover that fits over raised beds—perfect for year-round growing, organic gardening, and extending your harvest season. Whether you’re using greenhouse plastic, insect netting, or a frost blanket, this PVC hoophouse build is a must-have solution for gardeners of all skill levels.

How to Add a Custom Plant in the Seed to Spoon App

Can’t find a plant in the Seed to Spoon app? No problem! With our custom plant feature, you can easily add any plant you’re growing—even rare or unusual varieties. Whether you’re entering details manually or scanning a seed packet, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to make sure your garden is fully personalized and your planting dates stay on track.