Azalea Lace Bug

Beginning in May, examine rhododendron foliage for pale speckled upper surfaces paired with brown varnished undersides concentrated with cast skins and frass. Tiny brown and tan adults resemble delicate lace patterns underneath leaves. Infested leaves eventually yellow or brown, creating aesthetic damage.

Forceful water spray to leaf undersides in early June disrupts nymphs. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap every 10 days if lace bugs persist, timing sprays when daytime temperatures stay below 85F. Encourage natural parasitoid wasps and predatory mites by limiting pesticide use. Tolerating minor stippling maintains beneficial insects for long-term suppression.