Lace Bugs: Tiny Insects with a Big Appetite for Trouble

When it comes to landscape pests, some of the most damaging offenders are also some of the smallest. Meet the lace bug—a tiny insect that may look delicate and harmless, but can leave your favorite ornamental plants looking tired, stressed, and unhealthy.

Named for the intricate, lace-like pattern on their wings, lace bugs spend most of their lives hidden on the undersides of leaves. There, they feed by piercing leaf tissue and sucking out plant sap. As they feed, they destroy chlorophyll—the green pigment plants need for photosynthesis.

The result? Leaves develop a pale, speckled appearance that resembles tiny white or yellow dots scattered across the surface. As damage progresses, foliage may take on a bronzed, silvery, or washed-out appearance.

• Azaleas

• Rhododendrons

• Sycamores

• Oaks

• Hawthorns

• Various ornamental shrubs

Plants growing in hot, sunny locations are especially vulnerable. Drought stress can also make infestations worse, giving these tiny pests an advantage.

Routine inspections and proactive care are the best ways to preserve the long-term health and appearance of your landscape plants.