Jassids
Small, wedge-shaped green insects that run sideways and suck sap from leaf undersides, causing curled, yellow-edged and scorched leaves.
Also known as: Leafhoppers, Green leafhoppers
Symptoms and identification
Leaf edges turn yellow, then reddish-brown and crisp, a pattern often called hopper burn. Leaves curl downwards and plants are stunted. Tiny pale green insects run sideways or jump when leaves are touched.
Causes
Jassids multiply quickly in warm, humid weather and attack okra, brinjal, cotton, beans and many other crops. Heavy nitrogen feeding produces soft growth that they favour.
Organic treatment
Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on leaf undersides every 5–7 days for three weeks. Remove badly affected leaves.
Prevention
Check leaf undersides weekly. Use yellow sticky traps, avoid overfeeding with nitrogen, and grow flowering plants nearby to attract predators.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
For severe infestations, use an insecticide labelled for jassids on that crop, following the label and the waiting period before harvest.