Populations of potato leafhopper continue to plague alfalfa fields throughout the state. Undoubtedly, the extended warm temperatures have contributed to this population explosion.
Producers are encouraged to inspect new growth soon after cutting for potato leafhopper; this is when alfalfa is most susceptible to feeding, leading to reduced yields and protein levels. Remember, once yellowing/reddish “hopper burn” is seen, the damage has already been done. Leafhopper control must happen before this point! Please refer to Alfalfa Insect Control Recommendations.
The potato leafhopper damage is already done to this alfalfa cutting.
