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Potato leafhopper a problem in alfalfa

Potato leafhopper has been a problem for alfalfa growers in the Upper Midwest.

University of Minnesota Extension integrated pest management specialist Bruce Potter says cutting hay should knock back populations.

“The other option is to use insecticides, and use those judiciously.”

Potato leafhoppers feed on the underside of alfalfa leaves and stems by sucking sap from the veins. They also inject saliva into the plant as they feed, which plugs the vascular tissue and causes physical damage.