As a gardener, you may have come across a bubbly, white foam-like substance known as cuckoo spit. It may have alarmed you at first, but have no fear! This sticky substance is harmless to plants and can actually be a sign of a healthy garden
Cuckoo spit, also known as frog spittle or spittlebug foam, is a frothy substance found on plants during the spring & summer months. It is not actually related to cuckoos but is instead produced by the nymphs of the froghopper or spittlebug. These tiny insects pierce plant tissues with their mouthparts, causing the sap to leak onto the plant’s surface. The nymphs then surround themselves with a bubble of air and a secretion, creating the familiar foamy appearance known as cuckoo spit.
While cuckoo spit can look unpleasant, it is completely harmless to plants. In fact, it can actually benefit your garden by providing a protective barrier against predators & helping to regulate moisture levels in the soil. The froth also provides a cool, moist environment for the nymphs to develop in.
You may be wondering how to deal with cuckoo spit if it appears in your garden. The good news is that no action is necessary – the foam will eventually dry up and disappear on its own. However, if you’re bothered by the appearance, you can gently wash it off with water from a hose. Be sure not to damage the plant or disturb any beneficial insects while doing so.
It’s important to note that while cuckoo spit is harmless to plants, it can still attract predators such as ants or wasps. If you notice an increase in these insects, it could be a sign of an infestation and you may need to take action. In this case, the best course of action is to introduce natural predators such as lacewings to your garden to control the population of spittlebugs and other pests.
Cuckoo spit may look unsightly but is nothing to be worried about. It’s a natural occurrence that has no negative effects on plants and can even provide benefits to your garden.