Passionvine Hopper

Scolypopa Australis

The adults are small, slightly moth-like brown insects with partially transparent wings. The juvenile nymphs are wingless and commonly known as ‘fluffy bums’ due to their fluffy tails. Both the adult and nymph are sap suckers that can harm the vigor of plants, help transmit diseases, and excrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold growing on the leaves.

Prevention

Stressed, unhealthy plants are more likely to get affected by the Passion Vine Hopper, so keep them well fed and well watered, especially over summer. Feed with an appropriate fertiliser in addition to monthly applications of Aquaticus Garden Booster for strong healthy plants.

Early intervention is crucial for control. Nymphs hatch in late spring and adults are present from summer until early winter.

Older nymphs and adults are very mobile and can re-infest plants from nearby areas. If you want to apply a pesticide to control passion vine hopper, the most effective stages to target are the very small nymphs.

Grow plants that attract predator insects such as alyssum, borage, hyssop, and lavender nearby.

Natural Treatment

Spray as per the instructions with Aquaticus Bugtrol.

Look carefully at any small twigs or branches that are dying. If they have an area that has serrated like damage, remove them as this is where the eggs are laid.

Other Treatment

Both the adult and the nymph can be hard to kill as they tend to move jump or fly away. Spraying in the evening tends to be more effective as they are less active at this time of night.

Spray with Groventive Garden (but ONLY on non edible crops) as per the instructions on the bottle. Repeat applications may be required throughout the summer. For more effective control mix Groventive Garden with Enspray99 Oil as this will help suffocate any eggs.

When using sprays and chemicals always read the label and follow instructions carefully. Spray in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.