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For more information, please contact Rob Connell, Seeds Product Manager, on
01769 576232 or 01769 576297 or email info@molevalleyfarmers.com.

Flea Beetle

Crops at risk

Kales, Swedes, Stubble Turnips and most cultivated brassicas.

Life Cycle

The beetles emerge in the spring and start feeding on suitable plants.  On warm days they can fly considerable distances between newly sown crops. Eggs are laid on or in the soil near brassica plants in May and June. After hatching the larvae feed on the plant roots and after 2 to 3 weeks they change into adults and start feeding on the foliage.  Development from egg to adult is 6 – 8 weeks.

Damage

Adults attack the plants eating holes in the leaves and stems of the seedlings in April and May. Attacks can occur well into the summer months, even after the first true leaves. Loss is usually greatest in a dry spring when brassica  seedlings are slow growing. Two or three sowings may be destroyed unless preventative action is taken.

Control Measures

Where possible use seed treated against flea beetle, this will help protect the crop as it is establishing. Crops should be monitored regularly as in situations of high flea beetle populations they will need spraying as well. There are several proprietary sprays available to control flea beetle, please contact your MVF agronomist for advice.

 


Contact us at MVF if you need more help >>

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