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Flea Beetles: signs and treatment in Jamaica
Tiny, jumping beetles that chew numerous small holes in the leaves of seedlings and leafy greens. PlantArmor's crop guides list flea beetles as a common problem on leafy veg (callaloo/pak choi).
Signs to look for
- Leaves look like they have been shot with a tiny shotgun
- Small, shiny, black jumping beetles
- Seedlings may be completely destroyed
What to do
Crops it affects
Questions growers ask
How do I recognise flea beetles?
Tiny, jumping beetles that chew numerous small holes in the leaves of seedlings and leafy greens. The signs to look for: Leaves look like they have been shot with a tiny shotgun. Small, shiny, black jumping beetles. Seedlings may be completely destroyed.
What should I do about flea beetles?
Use row covers. Apply Sevin (Carbaryl), Neem Oil, or Spinosad. Keep garden free of weeds. Always read the product label and observe the registered rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval before you apply any pesticide.
Which crops are affected by flea beetles in Jamaica?
PlantArmor's crop guides list flea beetles as a common problem on leafy veg (callaloo/pak choi).
Check it in the field
PlantArmor's reference library works offline, so you can compare what you are seeing against it standing in the plot, then log the spray you use along with its re-entry and pre-harvest intervals. Free to use.
This description and treatment come from the same reference library the PlantArmor app uses in the field. Pesticide registrations and permitted uses change — always read the current product label and observe the stated rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval.