Azaleas Troubled by Lacebugs

This azalea plant has a heavy lacebug infestation. It is growing in the full sun
making it more susceptible to the insects.

One of the most common insect pests of azaleas are lacebugs. They are small insects roughly one-eighth of an inch long with lace wings. They have pierce sucking mouth parts that suck fluid out of the leaves. The results are yellow to brown colored leaves that appear unsightly. The insects do not harm the plants; however, they can greatly degrade their appearance. 

Azaleas prefer to grow in sites that are part shade. If planted in full sun, they suffer stress and are more prone to being attacked by these pests. 

Control measures need to start early in the season. You will new leaves coming out that are green with the old ones having the damage from the previous year. Use a systemic insecticide according to label directions.  Bayer Advanced and Ortho have insecticides that are useful.