Another pest that may cause serious problems in blueberries is the red-banded leafroller. The adult of this species is a moth, which can be monitored with pheromone traps. The naturally occurring bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis, is effective against the larval stage of this pest. Two other pests, the sharpnose leafhopper and aphids, may cause problems on blueberries. These insects are primarily damaging because they transmit diseases, which local wild populations of blueberries and their relatives may harbor.
Leafhoppers transmit a microorganism that causes stunt disease.
In areas where stunt disease is a known problem, leafhopper control is suggested. The botanical pesticide sabadilla, as well as insecticidal soap and Diatomaceous earth, are reported to be effective against leafhoppers. It is also important to prevent the spread of stunt disease by purchasing only certified, disease-free plants. Aphid problems can be minimized by avoiding over-fertilization of the crop. For chemical control of aphids, organic growers can use insecticidal soap.