Cuckoo spit

Question ...

Several of my plants in the garden look as if someone has spat on them (which no one has). What is this, and is it a pest, if so, what can be done?

Answer ...

The spit that you have noticed on your plants is often called, 'cuckoo spit'. It is caused by the larvae of an insect called a froghopper. The insect sucks sap from the plant but generally does little harm. Spray the plants with a jet of water to wash off the insects and the 'spit'.