Flea Beetle Damage on Green Beans: Identification and Control

Identifying the Culprit

Tiny, round holes in young bean leaves are classic flea beetle feeding. Beetles are small, shiny, black, and jump when disturbed.

Organic Control Options

• Row cover: Floating row cover at planting excludes beetles.
• Trap crop: Plant radishes or mustard nearby; beetles prefer them.
• Spray: Pyrethrin/rotenone mix if damage is severe (follow label, avoid bloom).
• Beneficials: Encourage braconid wasps with nectar plants (sweet alyssum, dill).

Cultural Prevention

• Delay planting until soil warms (beetles less active).
• Remove crop residue promptly after harvest.
• Rotate legumes annually.