New Tools to Combat the Brown-Winged Planthopper
- lanie38
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
GGIA has continued to monitor information related to the brown-winged planthopper (Pochazia shantungensis) since it was first detected in Georgia in fall 2025.
We shared an initial update with the industry in December 2025, followed by additional information in April 2026. As we move further into the 2026 growing season, new information from Dr. Shimat Joseph at the University of Georgia provides important context for nursery growers, landscape professionals, retailers, and allied industry partners.
Dr. Shimat Joseph with the University of Georgia has now published a timely Extension article summarizing what is currently kn
own about this invasive pest, including its biology, host range, damage potential, monitoring challenges, and management considerations. GGIA is grateful to Dr. Joseph for working quickly to make this information available to Georgia’s green industry.
According to Dr. Joseph’s article, monitoring data provided by the Georgia Department of Agriculture show that the brown-winged planthopper has reemerged at two Atlanta-area sites in 2026. That continued detection is why industry awareness and reporting remain important.
Close-up view of egg masses of brown-winged planthopper.
Photo credit: Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Why It Matters
The brown-winged planthopper is a pest of concern because of its broad host range and potential to move through plant material. Dr. Joseph notes that it attacks more than 300 plant species, including fruits, ornamental crops, and trees in forested areas. Because eggs are laid within branches, unintended movement of plant material could contribute to spread.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s pest alert notes that the insect has been recorded on more than 200 plant species from 81 plant families, with fruit trees such as apple and peach, along with woody ornamentals, identified as preferred hosts. Shrubs, vines, and herbaceous plants may also serve as hosts during different life stages.
At this time, the full impact to Georgia agriculture is not yet known. That uncertainty makes early detection, careful monitoring, and timely reporting essential.
What Industry Members Should Watch For
Growers, landscapers, retailers, and plant professionals should continue monitoring host material for possible signs of brown-winged planthopper, including:
White, waxy egg masses or deposits on twigs and branches
Eggs inserted into plant tissue, often in rows
White, wax-covered nymphs with noticeable waxy tails
Brown adults with a distinct white spot on the outside edge of the wing
Honeydew, sooty mold, wilting, yellowing, dieback, or reduced plant vigor
Adults and nymphs can cause damage by feeding on plant sap. Females may also damage young branches when inserting eggs, and honeydew secretion can contribute to sooty mold development.
Reporting Suspected Finds
If you believe you have found brown-winged planthopper, please take clear photographs and report the suspected detection to the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Email photos to:pestid@agr.georgia.gov
You may also contact your local county Extension agent for assistance.
Moving Forward
GGIA will continue working with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, University of Georgia Extension, and industry partners to share timely information as it becomes available.
We encourage all members and industry professionals to review Dr. Joseph’s full article, monitor plant material carefully, and report anything suspicious. Continued vigilance is one of the most important tools we have to help protect Georgia’s nursery, landscape, and agricultural industries.
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