Any etymologists or gardeners out there who can help me?
On my strawberry plants, along the stems, I've noted (and squashed) little worms hidden in a mess of frothy white bubbles. The bubbles are the consistency of saliva, and it looks for all the world that my strawberry plants are going rabid.
Then, as I was harvesting mint this evening, I noted again the same slimy froth (eggs???) along with the tiny little whitish/greenish worms.
Anyone know what these are?
And anyone know of a good organic/natural spray or solution?
YUCK! HELP ME, please!!!
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5 comments:
You have encountered the infamous 'mad dog' Strawberry bug.
Seriously, Auntie Phyllis will check her gardening library to ID the perp, and come up with a suitable punishment for him.
Your Auntie Phyllis found this entry in "1001 Hints and Tips For Your Garden", Readers Digest book.
Spittlebugs:, 'Spit' Is repulsive, but harmless.
Plants Affected: Mainly Lavender, Chrysanthemums, Roses, Goldenrod, Asters, Willows, Junipers and STRAWBERRIES!
Symptoms and Causes: Small insects, or nymphs, of spittlebug species are covered by frothy masses of 'spit' and are found among the leaves. The nymphs come in many colors but are usually pink.
Treatments: The nymphs do little damage, but the spitlike appearance can detract from a plant's appeal. Masses can be removed with a brush, broom, or strong stream of water.
Her name in the Greek is "Greenbough", aptly named, what?
Good luck with your Redneck Bugs.
Try beer, although they probably like that. And Nascar.
Hi Kim!
I concur with appdaddy. Sounds like Spittlebugs, and perhaps the worms are the nymphs...see http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/ef207.asp
Just spraying them off with water should do the trick, so take the hose to "em!
Tonya
THANK YOU! This is a great relief. I don't mind slobber as long as it isn't harmful (I have after all lived with two girls who were once six months old). They can froth at the mouth all they want as long as the plant is alright.
Thanks terribly. I couldn't find any info. except dire warnings about plants going over like buildings with no foundations, etc.
Kim,
I just interviewed a nice entomologist for NWC's Classic. Part of her blog at http://www.bugsforthugs.com/ is devoted to "Ask the Entomologist." Check there to solve future insect mysteries!
Amy
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