Flea Beetles
The many kinds of flea beetles are small insects that chew small,
round holes in the leaves of vegetables and can transmit the bacteria that
cause wilt diseases. They especially like tomatoes and potato plants, but
will attack many other vegetables, like beans, as well. The grubs of some
flea beetles feed on leaves of stems, while others feed on roots. Flea beetles
are especially damaging to seedlings, and the holes they eat in the foliage
are entryways for diseases. Flea beetles are especially abundant in cool,
wet weather.
Keeping the weeds down in the vegetable garden helps reduce the potential number of these pests. Liquid Sevin can be applied early in the season to control this insect (insecticidal soap is also effective). Be sure to read the entire label and follow directions carefully for proper application.
For further information, read online our care sheet on "Insecticide Basics", and "Chemical Basics".
Revised: 03/10/98
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