What insects do azaleas attract?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Azaleas are beautiful flowering plants that add a pop of color to any garden or landscape. However, like many plants, azaleas can attract certain insects. Two common insects that are often found on azaleas are lace bugs and azalea caterpillars.

Lace bugs are tiny black insects with lace-like wings. They feed on the leaves of azalea plants, specifically underneath the leaves. These bugs pierce the surface of the leaves and suck out the chlorophyll, causing damage to the foliage. As a result, you may notice white splotches or discoloration on the leaves of your azaleas. It’s not uncommon to find lace bugs on azaleas, especially during the warmer months.

One way to spot lace bugs is to gently bump a few leaves of your azalea plant and observe any tiny black insects that may fall onto a white piece of paper or your hand. They are quite small, so you might need to look closely to see them. If you notice lace bugs on your azaleas, it’s important to take action to prevent further damage to your plants.

Azalea caterpillars are another type of insect that can be found on azaleas. These caterpillars are the larvae of the azalea caterpillar moth. They are known for their striking appearance, with bright yellow or orange bodies covered in black spots and spines. Azalea caterpillars can defoliate an azalea plant if left unchecked.

If you suspect azalea caterpillars on your plants, carefully inspect the foliage for any signs of caterpillar activity. They may be feeding on the leaves or hiding within the branches. It’s important to address azalea caterpillar infestations promptly to prevent significant damage to your azaleas.

There are several methods you can use to control lace bugs and azalea caterpillars on your azaleas. One option is to use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, which can be sprayed onto the foliage to kill the insects. Another option is to introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewing larvae, to your garden. These beneficial insects feed on lace bugs and caterpillars, helping to control their populations.

Regularly inspecting your azaleas for signs of insect activity and taking action when necessary can help keep your plants healthy and thriving. Additionally, maintaining proper azalea care, such as providing adequate water and fertilizer, can help prevent stress on the plants and make them less susceptible to insect infestations.

Azaleas can attract lace bugs and azalea caterpillars. These insects can cause damage to the foliage of the plants if left untreated. By being vigilant and taking appropriate measures to control these pests, you can ensure that your azaleas remain beautiful and healthy.