Question
QUESTION: I have white sticky globules on my rosemary and lavender plants.  There is a bug inside the globule.  What is this and how to I treat it?

ANSWER: Kay,

There's a couple different insects that you may be describing. If the globule looks like "spit" this is called a spittle bug (Hemiptera). These true bugs are very common in spring and usually don't harm plants very much. You can simply wash them off with a strong spray of water. If the masses are more solid and cottony then the insect is likely a scale insect (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/sca_ins.html for a picture). Scale insects are both more difficult to control and a more serious pest.

Post a follow up (google "spittle bug" for a picture) and tell me which one you have. Post a picture if possible and we can discuss control. Also tell me if you use conventional insecticides.

Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I believe it is the spittle bug.  I have sprayed them off with the water hose but within a few days the sticky globules begin to return.  What else can I do?

Answer
The best thing to do is to wash off the spittle mass with water and treat with insecticidal soap to kill the bugs. Soaps are very safe and easy to use but you'll need to wash the spittle away first. See http://www.livingwithbugs.com/insecticidal_soap.html for info about soaps. Most lawn and garden stores sell insecticidal soap.

Post a follow up if you have questions.

Jack DeAngelis