How to identify
- Elongated soft beetles; striped, black, or gray species
- Sudden clusters on foliage
- Handle with gloves — crushed beetles can blister skin
Damage: Rapid defoliation in patches; livestock hay contamination is a separate farm issue.
Control methods
- Hand-pick with gloves into soapy water.
- Shake beetles onto a sheet early morning.
- Do not crush them against bare skin.
What products to use
We list product types and what to check on the label — not brand rankings, prices, or “we tested” claims. Always follow the label for your crop, and prefer the least disruptive option that works.
Labeled contact insecticide (last resort)
When: Large clusters defoliating plants
Look for: Blister beetles listed on the crop; hand-picking is usually enough in home gardens