How to identify
- Yellow-green beetles about 1/4 inch long
- Black stripes or spots depending on species
- Often on flowers and young leaves
Damage: Chewed seedlings; wilt from bacterial wilt transmitted by beetles.
Control methods
- Use row cover until plants flower, then remove for bees.
- Transplant sturdy starts instead of tiny seedlings when pressure is high.
- Clean up cucurbit debris; beetles overwinter nearby.
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.
Kaolin clay (particle film)
When: Early season protection on foliage
Look for: Crop protectant labeled for vegetables; reapply after rain
Yellow sticky traps (monitoring)
When: To detect early flights — not a full control
Look for: Place near plants, not as the only method