Sap beetles, also commonly called picnic beetles or picnic bug, are sometimes bothersome in gardens come late summer. They feed on overripe, damaged, and decomposing fruits and vegetables. There are nearly 200 species of sap beetles. Adult sap beetles are between 1/8 and 1/4 inch long, black or dark colored and oval in shape. They … Read more
Worms are the larvae, or immature stage, of any of a number of insects. Primarily various moth species. However some varieties of Beetles commonly produce worms fairly indistinguishable in general appearance and feeding habits from moth larvae. Identification Cabbage Worms and Related Worms Worms that feed on Cabbage, Cruciferous vegetables, Brassicas, Green leafy vegetables, Cauliflower, … Read more
Flea Beetle is a generic name applied to many species of small jumping beetles commonly seen early in the gardening season. They are somewhat elongated to oval in shape, and vary in color, pattern, and size. There are dozens of varieties. Adult flea beetles are about 1/10 of an inch long. They’re dark colored black … Read more
About the Bean Beetle Both the adults and larvae of this species will cause major crop damage to beans. They feed on both the leaves and bean pods . In heavy infestations, the tissue between the leaf veins may be completely skeletonized. Adult bean beetles are pale yellow to copper colored with 16 black spots … Read more
Harlequin Bug Habits and Identification The Harlequin bug is a variety of stink bug and not a true beetle. The adult black, shield-shaped bug is covered with orange, red, and yellow markings. It varies in size, but is generally no more than 3/8 inch. The barrel-shaped egg, laid in clusters on crucifer foliage, is light … Read more
The Tarnished plant bug is a common sap-feeding insect which attacks a wide range of plants. Bean, beet, cauliflower, cabbage, chard, celery, cucumber, potato, turnip, salsify, and dill, apple, peach, pear, blueberries and most other deciduous and small fruits. Strawberries are one of their favorites. It can cause considerable damage to vegetables and fruits by … Read more
There are two primary types and six species of cucumber beetle in North America. Perhaps the most prolific and widespread is the striped cucumber beetle. Measuring about one fifth of an inch in length it is a yellowish green with a yellow thorax and black head it has three black stripes running lengthwise on its … Read more
If you’re a home gardener, then you know that pests can be a real nuisance. Not only do they damage plants, they can also transmit diseases. Luckily, there are lots of natural and DIY ways to get rid of pests without using harmful chemicals. Keep reading for some tips on how to protect your garden from these pesky critters!