A Pest That Will, if Not Controlled, Have Homeowners Frothing in Anger

The first indication of a problem is the mysterious white blob about the diameter of a quarter in the turfgrass or on a weed.  The frothy material hides a potential menace to the funds and hours of labor committed to the groomed and manicured lawn.

This globule is usually the first sign a spittlebug is attempting to colonize the yard. These insects occur throughout much of Florida, but they are more common in Florida’s panhandle with abundant examples in the northwestern counties.

The telltale white blob or spittle hides the immature form of this pest from the view of predators and parasites. It also insulates the spittlebug nymphs against heat and cold, and it acts as a moisture control mechanism.

Less than half an inch in length, spittlebug adults are flitting across panhandle Florida looking for an easy meal and an ideal site to leave their eggs. Often overlooked, they usually make their presence known by the damage they do.

Without the protective coating, the larval-state insect would quickly dry up under the summer’s withering heat or be consumed by a bird.

While they prefer centipede-grass, these invaders will attack all turf grass species and other plants.  Their eggs are laid at the base of the grass in the thatch, in hollow grass stems, or behind the leaf sheaths.

One generation may last two to two-and-a-half months, and there are usually two generations per year.

Eggs laid by the second generation overwinter and hatch the following spring, from late March to late April.

The first generation’s adults are abundant in June. The adult population peaks again in early August to early September.

A secret to their success is most spittle masses are not obvious because they are located near the soil surface or in the thatch. Adults are most commonly seen in the early morning hours when they are most active eating turf foliage and other leafy material.

Spittlebugs seek protection and camouflage near the soil surface during the heat of the day. They will jump from the leaf surfaces when the turf is disturbed.

Nymphs and adult spittlebugs suck plant juices through their piercing-sucking mouthparts. The solutions provide nutrients and hydration to these insects during the heat of summer.

Damage is primarily caused by the adults when they inject a phytotoxic chemical into the plants while feeding. Much of the fluid intake beyond the needs of the adult spittlebug goes into the production of the froth, which has an acrid taste, deterring predators from attacking the next generation.

The infested turf wilts and the leaf tips turn yellow. Dense populations of this small but damaging pest will eventually cause the grass to further change color to brown and curl dramatically.

Spittlebugs are rarely a problem on well-maintained turf. Careful inspection and frequent monitoring alerts the turf’s manager early to the arrival of this pest.

Allowing an excess thatch accumulation provides an excellent reproductive habitat. The occurrence of excess rain or irrigation will add to the likelihood of an infestation.

Following approved practices regarding mowing, fertilization and irrigation to reduce thatch buildup, and dethatching when necessary, will greatly reduce the possibilities of spittlebug establishment.

If greater control is needed, purchase an insecticide specifically labeled for spittlebugs and always follow label directions.

If white blotches continue to appear, it is likely used chewing gum or Styrofoam chips.   These are the byproducts of another type of pest.

About the author
Les Harrison

Les Harrison is a longtime resident of north Florida, having attended public schools in three counties. He has a Bachelor Degree from the University of Florida in Journalism and a Master’s of Science from Auburn University in Agricultural Economics. He is the author of more than 2000 newspaper and magazine stories and journal articles. During his career, he held positions in private, government and educational (university level) sectors. He holds the title of Extension Agent Emeritus. He can be reached at harrison.gl@gmail.com.

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