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Four-lined plant bug
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The four-lined plant bug, scientifically known as Poecilocapsus lineatus, is a common pest that affects cannabis plants in the United States. This pest is characterized by its distinct black lines against a yellow-to-green background. The adults have an orange head with dark reddish-brown eyes. Both male and female adults share similar features, although females are slightly larger and broader, particularly in the abdomen. These bugs primarily feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage to the leaves.
Cause of Issue
◉ Four-lined plant bugs infest cannabis plants and cause damage by sucking out the sap from the leaves.
◉ These bugs leave clusters of pale spots on the leaves, resulting in a burned appearance.
◉ Unlike caterpillars, they do not create holes in the leaves but rather extract the sap, leaving no green coloration in the affected areas.
Symptoms
◉ Clusters of spots on the leaves that resemble burn marks
◉ Transparent areas on fresh injuries, later forming raised brown scabs
◉ Nymphs present on the plants, indicating the presence of adult four-lined plant bugs
◉ The bugs do not create holes in the leaves but instead suck out the sap, leaving no green coloration in the affected areas
Corrective Actions
To combat four-lined plant bugs on cannabis plants, several measures can be taken:
Prevention:
◉ Stay vigilant and regularly inspect plants for signs of the bugs, their damage, or nymphs.
◉ Use floating row covers as a physical barrier between the plants and the bugs.
◉ Apply insecticidal soaps as a preventive treatment when signs of bugs or nymphs appear, or as a preemptive measure in the spring when their presence is anticipated.
◉ Eliminate nearby weeds, as they provide hiding places for the bugs.
◉ Consider planting mint as a trap crop, as it attracts four-lined plant bugs. However, be cautious not to create a thriving ecosystem for them.
Control:
Remove bugs manually by vacuuming or spraying them off the plants with water. Some growers suggest drowning the bugs in water.
Discard leaves containing eggs.
Introduce plant predators that feed on four-lined plant bugs without harming the cannabis plants, such as big-eyed bugs, damsel bugs, pirate bugs, and jumping spiders.
Utilize insecticides like insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other horticultural oils to directly kill the bugs.
Please note that it's important to exercise caution when using insecticides, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and effective application.
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