Potato Leafhopper Management in Alfalfa

The potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) is capable of causing serious damage to alfalfa in Nebraska. This insect overwinters in the gulf states and migrates northward in the spring, usually in April or early May. During the summer months, several generations develop while feeding primarily on legumes such as alfalfa and clover. Usually leafhoppers are more severe in second and third cuttings in Nebraska. Although an occasional host, soybeans rarely suffer economic damage, particularly with the pubescent (i.e. hairy) soybean varieties that are commonly grown today. Potatoes also can sustain economic damage from this insect. Generally, potato leafhopper damage is more common in the eastern one-­third of the state but it will occasionally cause major problems in other portions of the state.

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