They are widely distributed in Africa. Leafhoppers are small (about 2.5 mm long), slender mobile insects and green in colour. They move sideways when disturbed. Numerous leafhoppers may be seen on the underside of leaves. Their feeding on beans causes down curled leaves with yellowish margins. Eventually the whole plant may turn yellowish brown and dry-up. In Africa, leafhopper damage is usually minor and does not warrant control.What to do:
- Look for leafhoppers on the undersides of leaves.
- Wash nymphs from plants with a strong jet of water. Wash the undersides of the leaves in particular.
- Set out yellow sticky traps near the infested plants if the infestation is severe.
- If necessary spray insecticidal soap, neem or pyrethrum.