Leafhoppers derive their name from their hopping behavior. Nymphs are generally lighter green in color. Adults appear somewhat similar to immatures but lack wings. Both adult and nymphs puncture the underside of leaves and suck out plant juices. Feeding injury causes stunting and leaf curl.
Damage can cause the leaf to eventually scorch and drop from the plant.
Adults emerge in the spring, mate and lay eggs inside the veins on the underside of infested plants. The female leafhopper lives about 30 days and after maturity lays 1-6 eggs daily. It is believed there are 3-5 generations per year in south Georgia. Treatment for leafhoppers should be initiated when injury symptoms are numerous and leafhoppers are present in the field. A County Agent's Guide to Insects Important to Agriculture in Georgia.