Leaf-footed bug invasion threatening home gardens' fruit and flowers

When we dedicate a lot of time and energy to taking care of our garden, we expect it to reward us with beautiful flowers and lush greenery. Unfortunately, these dreams can be suddenly destroyed by the appearance of pests, including the leaf-footed bug.

Insects in the garden can be useful and extremely harmful. Although the leaf-footed bug didn't garner much attention until recently, many people have encountered it at least once.

The leaf-footed bug, classified as an actual bug, is characterized by an elongated, oval body with a rusty coloration, reaching up to 0.6 inches in length. The leaf-footed bug may emit a strong, irritating odor in a threatening situation. If this substance gets on fruits, it can cause them to lose their taste, affecting preserve quality.

When it attacks plants, knowing where to look for it is essential. This pest particularly favors peonies, hydrangeas, sow thistle, and dandelion. The leaf-footed bug also eagerly feeds on fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, and rhubarb.

Using its mouthparts, it sucks water and juices from plants, causing them to yellow, wilt, and in the case of fruits, to lose their pulp. Unfortunately, dedicated chemical means for its control have not yet been developed, and gardeners must use preparations for similar pests.

Removing weeds and carefully picking bugs off the leaves immediately upon spotting them can prevent plant damage.