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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Griffin, Georgia » Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #330571
Title: Pests in ornamental grasses

Author
item Harrison, Melanie
item ROBACKER, CAROL - University Of Georgia
item HAWKINS, SUSAN - University Of Georgia

Submitted to: Turfgrass and Landscape Research Field Day
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/21/2016
Publication Date: 8/4/2016
Citation: Harrison, M.L., Robacker, C., Hawkins, S. 2016. Pests in ornamental grasses. UGA Turfgrass and Landscape Research Field Day. p. 42.

Interpretive Summary: Ornamental perennial grasses are becoming increasingly popular in the landscape due to their beauty and ease of care. Although few pest problems are encountered in ornamental grasses, they are not immune to insects and disease. Two lined spittlebugs can cause damage to ornamental grasses such as little bluestem. One of the best ways to combat these pests is to select plants that are resistant to spittlebug damage. Using greenhouse tests, little bluestem cultivars were screened to identify resistant plants which can be used to develop improved cultivars. Control of two-lined spittlebugs is also discussed.

Technical Abstract: Ornamental perennial grasses are becoming increasingly popular in the landscape due to their beauty and ease of care. Although few pest problems are encountered in ornamental grasses, they are not immune to insects and disease. Two lined spittlebugs (Prosapia bicincta) can cause damage to ornamental grasses such as little bluestem. One of the best ways to combat these pests is to select cultivars that are resistant to spittlebug damage. Using controlled no choice greenhouse tests, little bluestem cultivars were screened to identify resistant plants which can be incorporated in breeding programs to develop improved cultivars. Control of two-lined spittlebugs is also discussed.