Some leaf-footed bugs also have a pair of yellow dots behind the head or a sharp point extending from the head.
Leaf-footed bugs look similar to beneficial assassin bugs. Check for a leaf-shaped fan on the bug’s back legs to ensure you’re really dealing with leaf-footed bugs. [3] X Research source
The young bugs grow into adults about 5 weeks after hatching.
Leaf-footed bugs usually lay eggs in the first 2 months of spring. Leaf-footed bug eggs hatch in 1 week, so keep a close eye on your plants during this time. [6] X Trustworthy Source University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Division of the University of Georgia focused on research and community education Go to source
If you have leaf-footed bugs on pomegranates, you may not notice any external damage but the seeds will have a darker color and won’t be as flavorful. Leaf-footed bugs also leave behind dirt-like black excrement that can coat the surface of the fruit and make it unappetizing.
Starting early allows you to make quick work of any eggs and young bugs before they spread further.
Remember to look for the rope-like eggs underneath the leaves and along twigs.
You may also knock the bugs onto the ground by shaking the stems or branches of the plant. Just make sure you step on the bugs and eggs that fall off right away. You could instead use a handheld vacuum to suck up the bugs. Just be sure to empty it when you’re finished.
Seal small entrances to your home to prevent leaf-footed bugs from getting inside during the colder winter months. If you have a barn or shed nearby, remove as many hiding spots as possible. Cover any cracks or other openings the bugs can get into.
To keep weeds from growing, mow grassy areas when they start looking long. You could instead use a weed killing spray, but it may damage or kill other plants or grasses you’re growing.
Regular pruning also makes spotting and catching the bugs a lot easier. Remember to wear gloves while you’re pruning since some plants have sap that could irritate your skin.
Attract birds to your garden with feeders, bird baths, and nesting spaces.
These covers work best for self-pollinating plants such as tomatoes. Row covers also keep out beneficial bugs that pollinate plants, so use them sparingly. Check your plants often for bug infestations. The covers can trap in other pests like aphids if you are not careful.
Read the insecticide label for usage instructions and wash any fruit before consuming it. If you have a really serious infestation and other options aren’t working, you can use a chemical pesticide like permethrin to get rid of leaf-footed insects, though the chemicals will harm other beneficial insects in your garden.
