Mexican Bean Beetle: A Common Garden Pest
Introduction
Ladybugs are beneficial insects that help gardeners by eating aphids. However, the Mexican bean beetle is a serious pest that can damage bean plants. This article provides information on Mexican bean beetle control to protect your garden from this destructive insect.
Mexican Bean Beetle Facts
Mexican bean beetles are found throughout the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains. They thrive in wet summers and areas with heavy irrigation. Adult Mexican bean beetles are spotted, orange-red, and emerge by midsummer. They lay their eggs in groups of 40 to 75 on the undersides of bean leaves.
Bean Beetle Damage
Both adult and larval Mexican bean beetles feed on bean foliage, chewing the tender tissue between veins from the leaf’s underside. This damage can cause leaves to turn yellow and develop holes. In severe infestations, leaves may drop and plants may die.
Mexican Bean Beetle Control
There are several methods for controlling Mexican bean beetles in the garden:
Organic Methods:
- Floating row covers: Install these covers before beetles move into the area to prevent them from laying eggs on beans.
- Early season bean varieties: Plant early season bean varieties that mature before Mexican bean beetles emerge.
- Crop rotation: Avoid planting beans in the same location year after year to reduce the risk of infestation.
Insecticides:
- Labeled pesticides: Use insecticides specifically labeled for Mexican bean beetle control, such as acephate, acetamiprid, or carbaryl.
- Application timing: Apply insecticides before the residual effects of the previous application wear off to prevent new infestations.
Other Methods:
- Handpicking: Regularly inspect bean plants for Mexican bean beetles and remove them by hand.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove Mexican bean beetles from plants.
- Companion planting: Plant companion plants that repel Mexican bean beetles, such as marigolds or nasturtiums.
Tips for Preventing Mexican Bean Beetle Damage:
- Keep your garden clean: Remove spent plants and debris to eliminate hiding places for Mexican bean beetles.
- Inspect plants regularly: Check bean plants for signs of Mexican bean beetle infestation, such as chewed leaves or eggs on the undersides of leaves.
- Take action early: Control Mexican bean beetles as soon as you discover them to prevent severe damage.
Conclusion
Mexican bean beetles can be a nuisance in the garden, but they can be controlled with proper management. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can protect your bean plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest.