Lerp Psyllid

Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of California, Davis
Click to Enlarge

Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of California, Davis
Click to Enlarge

Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of California, Davis
Click to Enlarge

Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of California, Davis
Click to Enlarge

Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of California, Davis
Click to Enlarge

The lerp psyllid is a devastating Eucalyptus pest from Australia and has caused widespread damage to Eucalyptus species in California. It feeds on leaves, typically the newest, most tender leaves. There are other species of Psyllid, but the most problematic ones appear to be the Red Gum Lerp Psyllid and the Lemon Gum Psyllid.

Trees Affected:

  • Most Eucalyptus species, with the exception of Eucalyptus sideroxylon, or Red Ironbark as it is commonly known. Red Ironbark seems to be much more resistant to Lerp Psyllid. Eucalyptus citriodora also seems to be resistant to Lerp Psyllid, but is instead prone to infestation by Lemon Gum Psyllid.

What to look for:

  • Small, white caps on the leaves and surrounding floors. These are "lerps" - a protective cover for the psyllid nymphs.
  • Nymphs are yellow to brownish and resemble wingless aphids. Can usually be found under the protective "lerps".
  • Adults are 1/8", light green to brown with orange to yellow blotches.
  • Honeydew on leaves - Sticky substance generated in lerp production
  • Sooty molds on leaves from honeydew

Damage to Tree:

  • Extensive, repeated defoliation
  • Death, due to repeated attacks and exhaustion of the tree's resources

Actions to Take:

  • Proactive systemic insecticide application to be absorbed by roots into the leaves
  • Reactive foliar insecticide application to treat insects currently on the tree
  • Provide adequate irrigation - infrequent but longer periods of watering (Trees that are drought stressed are more susceptible to lerp psyllid infestation)
  • Avoid fertilizing infested Eucalyptus as this will lead to greater foliage production and food source for Psyllid populations
  • Biological control can also be taken by introducing psyllid predators such as:
    • The Lady Beetle (Hippodamia convergen or Harmonia axyridis)
    • The Imported Parasitic Wasp (Psyllaephagus bliteus)

To speak with a Certified Arborist about solutions for Lerp Psyllid control in Southern California, please call 949.830.TREE or visit www.pacificcoastarborists.com

References:

BugInfo.com. Lerp psyllids on eucalyptus trees. Univar, Inc. 5 May 2008. http://www.buginfo.com/article.cfm?id=64

Dahlsten DL, Daane KM, Paine TD, et al. 2005. Imported parasitic wasp helps control red gum lerp psyllid. California Agriculture 59(4):229-234.

Grounds Services:

Stewards of Stanford University Campus Landscapes. Problems and solutions: Psyllid infestation on Stanford eucalyptus. 1 March 2004. Stanford University. 5 May 2008. http://grounds.stanford.edu/topics/psyllidinfestoneucalyptus.html UC IPM Online. Eucalyptus Redgum Lerp Psyllid. 1 January 2006. University of California: Agriculture & Natural Resources. 5 May 2008. http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7460.html

Resources

Click on each Resource to learn more about each Topic:


Testimonials

"It has been a pleasure working with Brandon Elrod, of Pacific Coast Arborists. Over the past several years I have come to rely on his expertise and integrity and have referred him to our company's largest clients. When I was manager of a high profile master association, he was always willing to go the extra mile to meet my client's needs. In an annexing community, he responded the same day to a request to trim around the developer's marketing signage throughout the association. These experiences and others demonstrated that I can count on him to get the job done and to make sure that it is done the right way. "

Melodie Lamont
Business Unit Leader
Merit Property Management

More Testimonials


Contact Us

Pacific Coast Arborists
27076 Burbank
Foothill Ranch, CA 92610
949.830.TREE

Join our Mailing List