Spruce Needle Spittlebugs: Identification and Control Timing

Mature black spruce row in Manitoba Parkland looks like sprayed with artificial snow. Rubbing reveals tiny elongated black spot inside. Asks if concerning and treatable.

Pest: Spittlebugs

• Nymphs: black/yellow, hide in frothy "spittle" (excreted plant juice) for protection.
• Adults: 3/8", brown, wedge-shaped, roof-like wings (July-Aug).
• Both feed on sap → needle browning (flagging), limb/tree mortality if severe.
• Eggs overwinter in dead wood/bark, hatch May.
• Nymphs move toward tips, create spittle, migrate inward as they grow.
• Adults mate/lay eggs July-Aug.

Control

• Cultural: Maintain vigor (thinning), remove dead branches (egg sites).
• Chemical: Spray nymphs/adults with carbaryl, chlorpyrifos, or pyrethrin in early July when 95% spittle masses empty.

Reference: Clemson spittlebug guide