There are two or more generations per year. Damage Nymphs remove plant juices with piercing-sucking mouth parts. Heavily infested foliage takes on a yellow, mottled appearance. The immatures also produce honeydew which may lead to the development of black sooty mold fungus growth. This discolors the plant and can reach levels that interfere with photosynthesis.
Monitoring Look for early signs of honeydew, sooty mold or leaf yellowing.
Then check the undersides of leaves, particularly the tender terminal leaves, for the nymphs and adults. Viewing immatures may require careful observation. This pest can be difficult to control because all of the life stages are usually present at the same time, and the eggs and pupae are not susceptible to most insecticides. Thus, a single insecticide treatment will not control an infestation. Horticultural oil can be used for all stages if thorough coverage is achieved on the undersides of the leaves.