Flea Beetles

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by davygfuchsia, Mar 16, 2011.

  1. davygfuchsia

    davygfuchsia Gardener

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    Have been told today that Flea beetles are a big problem on most Brassicas on our allotment plots ..

    Do any members have any problems with them and if so any practical tips ?

    Dave
     
    davygfuchsia, Mar 16, 2011
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  2. Makka-Bakka

    Makka-Bakka Gardener

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    .

    Yes they are and can be!

    A couple of years ago there was oilseed rape planted in the next fields to our plots.

    My plants were covered by the little blighters and eating holes in all the leaves!

    Luckily I noticed them fairly quickly, and luckily again, I had some proper insectide then, a couple of sprayings got rid of them for good!

    I have not had the problem since, so do not know if the coloured water they sell now would work!

    Hope this helps!

    Cheers!
     
    Makka-Bakka, Mar 16, 2011
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  3. JWK

    JWK Gardener Staff Member

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    The last couple of years they have been really bad, never really noticed them before that. The only way I got rid of them was to spray.
     
    JWK, Mar 16, 2011
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  4. Louise

    Louise Gardener

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    I was told last year to plant raddishes nearby, as a sacrifice.:) The beetles are more attracted to them than cabbages etc. I never found out if it worked as the caterpillas got to my brassicas first! I am going to give it a go this year along with some butterfly proof cover!
     
    Louise, Mar 17, 2011
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  5. Marley Farley

    Marley Farley Affable Admin! Staff Member

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    :scratch: Oh they really are a pain I know... You could try companion planting Carraway as that is supposed to deter them.They can cause serious damage. They can kill young plants and eat
    holes in the leaves of larger plants. Time plantings to avoid peak
    populations, or plant under cloches or floating row covers. Keep plants
    well-watered, as flea beetles are attracted to hot, dry soil.

    :WINK1: A shallow
    pan filled with beer will attract and drown flea beetles. Dusting plants
    with wood ashes is another alternative. One of
    the best solutions is inter-planting or so I am told.

    Flea beetles find their host plant by
    its scent. The differing scents from a variety of plants confuses them!

    This is my ultimate weapon below, though from an older thread.... :WINK1: :thumbsup:
     
    Marley Farley, Mar 17, 2011
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