During the past several weeks, significant leafhopper damage has been observed in a few nurseries within central NJ counties. Although there are many species of leafhoppers, the Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) is probably the most notorious in the northeastern U.S. states. The feeding damage can mimic herbicide injury with distortion & discoloration of foliage. Some of the common deciduous tree hosts include maple, oak, ash, & birch as well as others. The Potato Leafhopper does not overwinter in NJ, but during the weeks of May is carried-in by upper atmospheric winds from the gulf coast states .
Potato Leafhopper & “hopperburn” symptoms on Acer rubrum at a Burlington County Nursery Photo Credit: Steven K. Rettke of RCE
