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Gardening Tip of the Day
Flea beetles are an early season pest that can be easily controlled without poisons.
Flea beetles chew tiny holes in the leaves of plants. When they attack seedlings they can destroy the plants before they have a chance to grow. On older plants the damage is minimal.
One of the easiest and most effective deterrents of flea beetles is the use of row covers. Immediately after planting seeds or plants, cover the area with the light and airy material.
Mixing a small amount of liquid soap in water is one several methods of organic control of flea beetles.
According to entomologists, flea beetles like it hot and dry so misting with water is recommended to keep the plants and area moist. This moisture can be applied by keeping a very fine mist over the bed throughout the day.
Some people have had good results by placing sawdust or coffee grounds around the plants.
A thick layer of straw or leaves as a mulch seems to confuse the flea beetles.
Dusting plants with diatomaceous earth or using a garlic and red pepper spray has been effective for others.
Flea beetle traps can be made from any flat white or yellow plastic or styrofoam. Cut squares anywhere from 6 to 8 inches square. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, tanglefoot, duct tape, fly paper, or other sticky product. Attach to stakes and place them standing up throughout the bed about 3 feet apart. These can be washed and reused or disposed of after use.
Strongly scented plants also deter flea beetles. Tansy, basil, catnip, mint, and hyssop are some of the most effective herbs.
Catch crops like radishes and spinach are also loved by flea beetles so will attract the beetles away from the plants which are being protected.
If all else fails, spraying plants with neem or pyrethrin can be effective.
At the end of the growing season, clean the area of plant debris so the flea beetles cannot overwinter in the garden bed.
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Author Marilyn Pokorney
Copyright Marilyn Pokorney 2025
