Azaleas – How To Get Rid Of Lacebugs

Q: I’ve been trying to get rid of lacebugs on my azaleas for years. Sprayed with insecticides, to no avail. I think it’s because the bugs are on the underside of the leaves and it’s difficult to get the spray on them. My azaleas are slowly turning white!

A: I agree that lacebug control is difficult with sprays. The best solution is to use a systemic insecticide that contains imidacloprid (Bonide Granules, Bayer Tree and Shrub, etc). This will make the azalea sap poisonous to insects. You’ll likely get control for two years.