Asparagus Beetle and Spotted Asparagus Beetle
In one year, there can be 2-3 generations of the Asparagus beetle and/or the Spotted Asparagus beetle causing severe in your asparagus patch.
Description
The common and spotted beetles are both oblong in shape and 1/4 inch (6mm) long.
The common beetle is often a multi-colored adult, with bluish-black wing covers with six rectangle-shaped yellow-colored markings and crimson edges.
In comparison, the spotted beetle is evenly orange with twelve black areas on the wing case.
In both species, the larvae have light-colored body frames and black head capsules.
The spotted beetle has a tendency to lay eggs around the ferns, while the common beetles oviposit upon stalks. Eggs are oblong for both species.
Symptoms
After asparagus shoots show up in spring, they might become infested by these beetles. They try to eat the young spears.
These beetles are particularly harmful once they start eating the tips of the buds, causing them to scar and change to a brownish color.
The larvae harm plants in a similar fashion, and discharge a black liquid that stains the plants.
Natural Controls
- Keep your asparagus patch healthy, with the right amounts and types of fertilizers.
- Use plants that are adapted to your area.
- Lure beneficial insects to the area, or purchased them, such as lady beetles and green lacewings.
- The Tetrastichus asparagi wasp helps keep the beetles under control.
Other Controls
- Apply to plants a mixture of diatomaceous earth and all-purpose flour.
- Spray plant oil products on the plants.
- During harvest, cut the shoots just below ground level, which will keep the eggs from developing.
- If you have a small asparagus patch, collect the asparagus berries to keep the spotted asparagus bugs controlled.
- In a small patch, control larvae by knocking them off plants with a broom or similar tool. Be careful not to break the spears.
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