Leaf discolouration caused by Froggatt's apple leafhopper

Froggatt's apple leafhopper is primarily a pest of apples in New Zealand and occurs only occasionally on stonefruits, notably plum, cherry, and prune. Overseas research suggests that it may be able to complete its life cycle on plum. Leaf feeding by Froggatt's apple leafhopper causes yellowing (chlorosis) of the upper surface which is easily seen. The damage begins typically in the centre and lower parts of the tree and spreads upwards and outwards in the tree as the season progresses. Damage is accompanied by honeydew which is excreted by the leafhoppers. This provides a substrate for the growth of sooty mould. Honeydew and sooty mould may occur on both leaves and fruits when leafhopper populations are high but this has not been reported on stonefruits.

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