Azalea Lace bug

Question: I think I have Azalea lace bug but cannot find information on getting rid of it. It is on my 2 azaleas and also attacking my marigolds. Please - any recommendations?
Thanks so much!

responder: Chris T.  OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer    Replied July 13, 2023, 9:13 PM EDT
response: Hi Susan,  The best information  could find is an Ohio State University Extension fact sheet written by OSU's own Dave Shetlar, otherwise known as the "Bug Doc."He provides an excellent summary of the various types of lace bugs and their stages of life.  Control at this point in the season would consist of insecticidal soaps, and standard insecticides such as pyrethroids than can be sprayed or used as drenches for a systemic solution.  If sprayed, the insecticide needs to make direct contact with the insects -- especially on the undersides of the leaves.  Be sure to read the label carefully before you purchase any insecticide and make certain that lace bugs are among its intended targets.  Here is the fact sheet for you to read for yourself: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-2150-10  Best of luck.

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 19, 2023, 2:22 PM EDT
response: Hello, I found a recipe for insecticidal soap (1 gallon distilled water with 2.5 TBS of mild liquid soap-using Dr.Bronner's for babies and 2.5 TBS if vegetable oil- using olive oil). Recipe calls for using every 4-7 days.  I have flooded the plants especially the underside on the 14th of July then again yesterday the 18th of July but see but see the lace bugs coming back within 1-2 days. I don't want to use any hardcore insecticides so is it possible and effective to apply the soap solution every other or even every day? Any other more natural solutions? Thanks so much, Susan

responder: Chris T.  OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer    Replied July 26, 2023, 3:30 PM EDT
response: Susan, While I cannot comment on the "recipe" you found for insecticidal soap, it seems to require the appropriate percentages of soap to water, and the recommended frequency of application.  To be sure, the soap is only effective if applied to both tops and bottoms of the leaves, and inside the leaves if they are curled.   The University of Connecticut makes this point:    For example, insecticidal soaps are useful in controlling azalea lace bug nymphs but will have no effect against lace bug eggs. In addition, all stages of the lace bug are found on the undersides of leaves. Spraying only on the upper surfaces will have no effect, as the treatment will not come in contact with the targeted pest. Regular scouting to detect when the lace bug nymphs hatch from the eggs will determine the best time for treatment.  That entire fact sheet can be found here:   Insecticidal Soaps | Home and Garden Education Center (uconn.edu)  Colorado State Extension has a fact sheet on insecticidal soaps in general:   Insect Control: Soaps and Detergents - 5.547 - Extension (colostate.edu) Colorado State does say that it can be cheaper to make your own soap, but warns against detergents that can be too harsh and ones that can subject plants to phytotoxicity.  And applying it too often can be harmful as well.  Whether you use a soap or a horticultural oil such as neem oil, it needs to come in contact with the pest itself and it has no residual benefit.    Personally, I have never tried to make my own solution but have had as much success as can be expected with commercially available products that list the targeted pest on the labels.