Asparagus: Asparagus beetle
categories: Asparagus Asparagus Insects Vegetables
revision date: 2023-04-04 12:00
Photographer unknown.
Biology
Two species of beetles feed on asparagus. Both are about 1⁄4″ long. The asparagus beetle is blue-black, with yellow and red markings. The overwintering adult beetles feed on emerging spears in the spring, sometimes causing distortion of the spears. The females lay dark brown eggs on the foliage. The larvae are dark gray or greenish, with dark heads. They are up to 1⁄2″ long and feed on the foliage. The spotted asparagus beetle is orange to reddish with black spots on the back. The adults feed on foliage, where the females lay greenish eggs. The larvae are orange and feed inside the berries.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Pick off eggs, adults and larvae when noticed.
- Pick off beetles. They can be destroyed or placed in the garbage.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Follow the product label instructions for minimum timing from last application to harvest.
Approved Pesticides
Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.