Symptoms
Nymphs and adults suck sap from flowers and young leaves. Honeydew deposits cause sooty mold on leaves and fruit. Premature flower drop, poor fruit set. Severe infestations can prevent fruiting entirely.
Prevention
Prune and thin canopy to improve air circulation. Time planting and flowering to avoid peak hopper season. Encourage natural predators such as spiders and lacewings.
Treatment
Organic
Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap during flowering. Apply Beauveria bassiana. Target nymphs on panicles before flower opening for best results.
Chemical (last resort)
Apply imidacloprid or chlorpyrifos at panicle emergence and again at 50% flowering. Repeat if rain washes off spray. Observe PHI strictly before fruit harvest.
Affects 1 crop
Sources
MARDI Mango Production Guide; DOA IPM Manual