When populations are large, elm leaf beetle larvae and adults can completely defoliate elms. Adults chew small, circular holes. Infested trees appear drought-stricken and brown or scorched. After the beetles feed, only the lacy vein structure of the leaf remains. Leaves quickly turn brown, curl and detach.
Lace bugs are sap-sucking pests that feed on deciduous and evergreen plants during the spring and summer, weakening their host plants. These pests thrive in full sun under dry conditions. Depending on the species, they are about 1/8-inch long and whitish with tan markings. Their most distinctive physical trait is, of course, lace-like front wings.