Many species. Black, brown, or striped beetles; about 1/16 inch long. Active, hops away when disturbed
Tomato, pepper, cabbage and related crops, eggplant, beet, spinach, turnip, mustard and radish.
Young plants, especially transplants, are severely damaged. Adults and larvae chew many tiny holes in leaves.
Throughout United States.
Adults overwinter in soil; in early spring they begin feeding on crop foliage. Females deposit eggs near the soil line where larvae emerge in about a week and feed on roots. Larvae feed for two to three weeks until reaching maturity and then pupate, emerging from the soil as adults in about two weeks.
Plow under weed and crop debris in the fall after harvest.
Dust with diatomaceous earth or rotenone for serious infestations.
Treat with a registered insecticide when insects appear in damaging numbers. Repeat as needed. Follow all label instructions, precautions, and pre-harvest intervals.
For sweet corn: Caution: Application of carbaryl to tassel region of corn during the pollen shedding period will seriously reduce the bee population.
Notice: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.
Disclaimer: Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products which also may be suitable.
Prepared by Alexandra Spring and Eric Day (Modified from a publication by the USDA)