Disease & Insect Management |
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Prosapia bicinata (Say) |
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| LIFE CYCLE: Overwinter in
thatch, behind leaf sheaths, or in stems. Eggs hatch as turf
comes out of dormancy. Newly hatched nymphs seek moist, humid
feeding sites near the base of grass plants. As they feed, they
excrete a frothy spittle mass for protection from desiccation
and enemies. Masses are found just below the soil surface (0-5
cm). Nymphs mature as adults in 34-60 days depending on moisture
and temperature. Eggs hatch in 2-3 weeks during mid-summer. Generally
2 generations per year. FEEDING SYMPTOMS:: Adults and nymphs suck juice from the grass, weakening the plant. Adults inject a salivary toxin that is translocated up and down the stem, cause the whole plant to turn yellow and brown, then the grass dies. Sparse, blighted looking turf. |
MANAGEMENT: Most abundant
in years with high spring and summer rainfall. Damage resembles
chinch bug feeding except that it occurs in shady areas rather
than full sun. Young spittlebugs cannot survive under dry conditions
and thrive in moist thatchy turf. Withhold irrigation when nymphs
are hatching in the spring or midsummer. Dethatch and aerate
to reduce spittlebug buildup. Chemical control: Acephate (ORTHENE) and chlorpyrifos (DURSBAN). Granules can be use followed by irrigation. Natural controls: Fungus Entomophthora grylii with irrigation on warm evenings |