Grasshopper Control

Unlike the story of the grasshopper and the ant, grasshoppers are not lazy when it comes to munching on almost every plant in the garden. Recognize how to identify grasshopper damage and get rid of these pests.

Unlike the story of the grasshopper and the ant, grasshoppers are not lazy when it comes to munching on almost every plant in the garden. Recognize how to identify grasshopper damage and get rid of these pests.

There are more than 200 different species of grasshopper in North America. They range in size from 1 inch to over two inches and can be brown, yellow, green or any mix of those colors. Some have wings and some don’t, but they are best known (and named) for their ability to jump over relatively large areas.

Grasshoppers are a vegetarian insect, and they feed mainly on leaves. Some of their garden favorites include leafy greens, like lettuce, spinach and chard, but they are not averse to dining on the foliage of any plant, including broccoli and carrots.

A couple grasshoppers in the garden will generally be controlled by their natural predators. When weather and temperature conditions cause an infestation of biblical proportions, insecticides like Neem or Diatomaceous earth are good deterrents, although they may not kill on contact. Natural plant repellants include horehound, cilantro and marigolds.