Watch out for Potato Leafhoppers

Description - Small light green insect approximately 3 mm long, nymphs are light yellow. Insect characteristically walks sideways and will jump when disturbed. Insect injects a toxin into the alfalfa plant when feeding, resulting in a yellowing or reddening of the plant. Leaf tips may display a "V" Shaped yellowing similar to Verticillium wilt. Severe infestations result in plant stunting. Majority of crop damage occurs in mid to late summer.  

 
Control - New resistant varieties (glandular hair types) can greatly reduce yield losses associated with potato leafhopper infestations. Varieties like AmeriStand 404LH have more than twice the resistance to leafhoppers, than 1st generation leafhopper varieties. Severe infestations may still require chemical control. Check with your local dealer or ag chemical supplier for chemical control recommendations.