Lerp Psyllid: Courtesy University of Orange County, California, Davis

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Lerp Psyllid

The lerp psyllid is a devastating Eucalyptus pest from Australia and has caused widespread damage to Eucalyptus species in Orange County, 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 Orange County, 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

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