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IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials

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Flea beetle
IPM scouting in herbaceous perennials > flea beetle
Adult flea beetles chew multiple small holes in leaves and flowers. They tend to feed in large groupings and possess enlarged hind legs that allow them to jump off plants when disturbed. Flea beetle larvae are located in the soil and feed on plant roots. Flea beetles overwinter as adults in weeds and plant debris.

Management: Remove overwintering sites such as weeds and plant debris. Place a covering over plants until adults are no longer present. Contact insecti-cides may be useful in controlling adults.
Flea beetle adult Group of flea beetle adults
Flea beetle adults are 1.5 mm long and vary in color from black to blue. Group of flea beetle adults on a leaf.
This information was developed from A Pocket Guide for IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials by Jan Byrne and Raymond A. Cloyd. Purchase this in a pocket-sized guide for reference in the orchard from MSU Extension (publication E-2981).
The MSU IPM Program maintains this site as an access point to pest management information at MSU. The IPM Program is administered within the Department of Entomology, fueled by research from the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, delivered to citizens through MSU Extension, and proud to be a part of Project GREEEN.
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Updated 8/06/07