GRASSHOPPERS -
grasshoppers belong to the insect Order Orthoptera. Most
are from one to two inches in size and either green,
brown or yellow in color. They damage plants by consuming
leaves and stems and are more of a problem in areas where
the annual rainfall is from 10 to 30 inches. Eggs are
usually laid in the soil in late summer/fall, so cultivating
the ground at that time may reduce their numbers. Mulching
may help, and natural enemies will take their toll. Rows
of seedlings etc. can be covered with floating row covers.
However, in general these pests are hard to control where
they are numerous enough to cause significant levels
of damage. |
