Boxelder psyllid

Systematic position: The boxelder psyllid (Psylla negundinis) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Psyllidae. These small, sap-sucking insects are specialized pests that frequently target host trees within urban and forest ecosystems.

Affected crops: The primary host plant is the boxelder maple (Acer negundo). Because this species of maple is commonly planted for shade and erosion control, the boxelder psyllid is widely found wherever its host thrives, causing significant aesthetic damage to public and private landscapes.

Biology and life cycle: Adult psyllids overwinter in sheltered areas, such as bark crevices or dense leaf litter. In the spring, they emerge and lay eggs on the newly developing leaves. Nymphs hatch and begin feeding on plant sap, progressing through several growth stages before maturing into winged adults. The climate influences the number of generations per year.

Character of damage and economic importance: Feeding by nymphs leads to severe leaf distortion, curling, and the formation of characteristic galls. Infested leaves often turn yellow and fall prematurely. The secretion of honeydew by the insects also promotes the growth of sooty mold, which further degrades the health and appearance of the tree.

Control measures: Effective management of the boxelder psyllid involves cultural and chemical strategies:

• Sanitation practices, including the raking and removal of infested leaf debris to destroy overwintering sites.
• Application of systemic or contact insecticides during the early nymph stage.
• Regular pruning to improve tree airflow and reduce microclimates favorable to pest development.
• Integrated pest management (IPM) to maintain tree health and encourage natural predator populations.