Spittlebugs on Juniper: Lifecycle and Pre-July Control

Spittlebugs on Juniper: Lifecycle and Pre-July Control

Frothy spittle masses with orange eggs/nymphs on juniper are pine spittlebugs (Aphrophora parallela). They overwinter as eggs, hatch in spring, feed on sap, and produce protective spittle. Adults emerge in July, leaving sooty mold on honeydew.

Control Window

• Apply contact insecticide (Orthene, Dursban, Decathlon) with force before mid-July to penetrate spittle.
• If you spray roses for aphids, that same product often works on spittlebugs.
• Heavy infestations can kill twigs/branches next year; early treatment is key.
• Natural fungal disease (Entomophthora) often suppresses populations in wild stands.

Check garden store for spittlebug-labeled products.