Lace bug damage usually occurs on Lantanas in mid to late summer. The leaves will appear “bleached-out”, and there will be black specks on the back of the leaves, which is the excrement of the insect. Cut the plants back to about one foot by one foot if badly damaged. Bag the clippings “in place” and rake the leaves up as well. Dispose of clippings and leaves in the garbage and do not compost. Cleaning up and removing infected plant material will help eliminate overwintering insects that could reinfect the plants the next year.
Fertilize with MicroLife 6-2-4 or MicroLife 6-2-4 Acidifier in an area approx. three feet around the plant. When new growth appears, protect the new foliage by spraying with a product labeled for lace bugs. Consult our knowledgeable nursery staff for recommendations on appropriate insecticides.
Black specks on the back of Lantana leaves is excrement excreted by lace bugs.
Lace bugs on the back of lantana leaves.
Lantana with lace bug damage.
