What does damage caused by lacebugs typically appear as?

Damage caused by lacebugs typically manifests as whitish speckling on the top sides of leaves. This speckling occurs because lacebug feeding causes the plant to lose chlorophyll in those areas, leading to a stippled appearance. As they feed on the sap from the leaves, they leave behind small areas that turn pale or white, creating a distinctive pattern that can be easily identified. This kind of damage often signals infestations that, if not managed, can compromise the health of the plant over time.

Other symptoms, such as dark spots or brown edges, are associated with different forms of stress or disease and do not specifically indicate lacebug activity. Similarly, drooping stems can result from various issues, including improper watering or root problems, rather than directly from lacebug damage. Identifying the characteristic speckled appearance helps in timely and appropriate management of lacebug infestations.