Monitor fields closely during periods of slow plant growth. Light populations may be beneficial by providing a food source for predatory and parasitic insects. On 10 inch tall alfalfa, treatment would not be needed until aphids exceed 50 per stem. Taller alfalfa will tolerate greater numbers. The potato leafhopper is wedge shaped and pale green in color.
Adults are very active, jumping or flying when disturbed.
Both adults and nymphs will run backwards or sideways rapidly. Damage by leafhoppers is referred to as hopper-burn. Foliage becomes dwarfed, crinkled, and curled. Small triangular brown areas appear at the tips of leaves, gradually spreading around the entire leaf margin. Suggested treatment guidelines are presented below.