White lather - what is it?

[Donnalwat]

Hi All,

I have found a whie lather like substance on the underneath of one of my lettuce today and when I poured water on it there was a maggot looking thing under it all - a baby somehing obviously but does anyone have any idea of what and how to stop it happening?

D

[shirlthegirl43]

It is a baby horsefly. Just wash them off with water, they do no harm to the plant but some people can be bitten by them.

[Donnalwat]

Thanks Shirley - thats exactly what I did, will have to keep a close eye!

[bluemoon]

I think it's what we used to call 'Cuckoo Spit' when we were kids. I usually just leave it unless it's on the edible part of the plant. That was before I just learned it was horsefly larvae though. The things bite me painfully, but don't touch OH. From now on they're doomed!

[Two_Sheds]

It is Cuckoo Spit, but it's not a horsefly ... it's a froghopper. No action necessary, they aren't esp. harmful
Royal Horticultural Society - Gardening Advice: Cuckoo Spit

[Flummery]

Froghoppers are quite cute. Now you see 'em - now you don't!

[BumbleB]

I have some white froth inside the leaves of my aubergines, they have been looking sick with whatever it is, have 'washed' them and put a layer of gravel in the pots, fingers crossed they will still be alive after my holiday!