Adult Bay Suckers are winged and about 2mm in length. They are pale brown in colour and emerge from hibernation in late Spring. They feed on the edges of bay leaves, causing them to curl along the edges.
Eggs are then laid within the curls. The eggs emerge as small scale-like larvae that secrete copious amounts of white wax from their bodies (Figs. 1 and 2). Whilst the larvae feed and grow, the infested leaves become more curled and deformed. Honeydew is also excreted by the larvae which not only makes the plant sticky, but encourages the growth of sooty moulds.
Using SB Plant Invigorator to control Bay Sucker:
Independent research studies have shown that SBPI can be highly effective at controlling the Bay Sucker (Trioza alacris) if used correctly.
A thorough application of SBPI applied in to the leaf curls and to the point it runs off the plant is required.
This initial application should be followed by a similar application one or two days later to control an established infestation of Bay Sucker.
The initial application will remove the protective wax from the larvae and the second application should effectively kill them.
Eggs are more difficult to control with SBPI so further regular applications of SBPI at weekly or fortnightly intervals are recommended to ensure the infestation is fully eradicated. Continued regular use of SBPI should protect plants from further infestations.
Spraying as often as weekly may seem excessive but please remember SBPI provides a foliar feed, comprehensive pesticide and mildewcide all at the same time.
Most people who use SBPI weekly rarely have to use other products. Resistance to SBPI will not occur due to its physical mode of action.
Bay sucker insects in leaf curl