Foamy Flea on Plants: What is Foam and How to Treat It

Have you noticed a white foam on your plants, like soap scum?

This is the foam mite (Aphrophoridae), an insect that appears mainly in spring and creates this characteristic foam to protect its larvae.

What is foamy?

The aphid is a small insect that feeds on plant sap.

The adult resembles a small cicada, while its larva lives in foam that it produces.

Biological cycle

• Winter: eggs are laid in plant debris

• Spring: larvae hatch and cause foam

• Summer: adult insects are listed

• Usually has 1 generation per year

What damage does it cause?

In most cases, foam bugs do not cause serious damage.

However, in severe cases it may:

• weaken the plant

• reduce growth

• affect the aesthetic image

Treatment

Mechanical removal

The simplest and most effective method:

• Rinse with water

• Removal of foam and larvae

Biological treatment

• Potassium soap

• Summer oil

Apply in the morning or afternoon

What to avoid

• Heavy insecticides without reason

• Excessive spraying

Agronomist advice

The foam beetle is an insect that often causes more panic than actual damage.

Correct diagnosis and mild treatment are usually necessary.

Do you need help?

If you are not sure what is happening to your plant, you can send a photo for evaluation.

🖊️ Columnist : Zaraidonis Emmanouil

PhD Candidate, Agricultural University of Athens