Insect Overview
The Lygus Bug, also known as the tarnished plant bug, is a common pest that affects a variety of plants, particularly fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants. These insects feed by piercing the plant’s tissue and sucking out the sap, which weakens the plant and causes damage to leaves, buds, and fruits.
Lygus Bugs are particularly damaging to young plants and crops, as their feeding can cause deformed buds, discolored leaves, and fruit deformities. They are most active during the growing season and are particularly problematic in fields and orchards where crops are grown in dense groups.
Timely treatment is critical to prevent widespread damage. Infestations should be managed early in the season to avoid lasting damage and to protect plant yields.
Symptoms
- Deformed or curled leaves and buds caused by feeding.
- Discoloration or yellowing of plant tissues.
- Black spots or scarring on fruit caused by feeding punctures.
Recommended Treatment
Apply Vivid-II as a treatment to control Lygus Bug infestations. Make sure to follow the application instructions for proper dosage based on tree size and pest severity. Early spring applications are ideal, particularly when the bugs are first becoming active.
Treated Species
Many tree species may be affected by Lygus Bug Treatment Guide. However, Vivid II is only approved for use on the following trees per the EPA product label.
- Ornamental Trees (including forest, ornamental, non-crop-bearing trees, and woody shrubs)