The potato or tomato psyllid secretes a toxic saliva during feeding that can severely damage potato and tomato plants. The insect pests are inactive and seldom can be seen moving about. While feeding, psyllid nymphs excrete small, waxy beads of "psyllid sugar," which resembles granulated sugar. This material may cover leaves during heavy psyllid infestations. Psyllids usually are found first on early potatoes or pepper transplants. Throughout the season, adult psyllids move to new plants, becoming most numerous late in the season on tomatoes.
Potatoes and tomatoes should be checked each year for psyllid problems. If psyllids are detected, promptly treat affected plants with an insecticide. For more information, see the fact sheet, Potato or Tomato Pyllids.
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