Corn: Western spotted cucumber beetle
categories: Corn Corn Insects Vegetables
last review date: 2025-10-30 11:55
Photo by: K. Grey
Biology
The western spotted cucumber beetle is a pest of many ornamentals and vegetables. About 1⁄4″ long, the adult beetles have yellow wing covers with black spots. The rest of the body is black.
Adults feed on leaves of plants, while the larvae feed on the roots of some plants.
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 and kill individual beetles.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
Repeated applications are necessary most seasons. Apply when first observed on plant. Products containing esfenvalerate are toxic to bees. Do not apply any of the products listed on or near blooming plants. To minimize risk to bees, apply in the evening after bees have stopped foraging for the day.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
Additional Image
Photo by: A.L. Antonelli
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.