The Two Spotted Cotton Leaf Hopper or cotton Jassid has become an emergent problem in Brooks County and across the cotton producing regions of Georgia. This pest is invasive, originating in the Indian sub-continent. Some of the earliest reports of the Jassid in the US were from Florida in late 2024. It was first observed in Georgia in July 2025. Since then, the effects of this new pest have been felt by cotton producers in Brooks County, and all across the state. UGA Extension, in Brooks and several other counties, has been working hard to find control measures. In 2025 we set up several on-farm trials, as well as trials at our various research stations in an effort to provide research based solutions for cotton producers. Other plants affected include, but are not limited to: okra, roselle, sunflowers and eggplant. This is a new and evolving pest issue for Georgia cotton producers. UGA Extension along with several others are working hard to answer the many questions arising as we learn more.
The damage caused by the Jassid begins as yellowing and eventually reddening of leaves. The reduction in photosynthesis can cause yield loss due to the bolls not being able to fill out. Some initial data shows that yield loss can range between 1-300 lbs/acre depending on the severity of infestation and insecticide treatments.
Data on the level of control for the insecticides tested in this study can be used to determine the spray programs that fit best. Cost, level of control, and other pests controlled can be the deciding factor when creating a program. With the current cotton economy, we want you to get the most you can out of each spray. I think everyone can agree that 2026 comes with a lot of uncertainty when looking at cotton. Always feel free to reach out to me or your county extension office for the latest. We will continue to research the best solutions for you and your farm.
Also, if you haven’t already, please take time to fill out this quick anonymous survey about the Jassid https://uga.questionpro.com/t/Acp5pZ7eUR
