Pea: Pea leaf weevils
Photo by: K. Grey
Biology
The pea leaf weevil is a small brownish-gray beetle about 1⁄5″ long. Adults are marked with lighter longitudinal lines on the back. They feed on the leaves, cutting out semicircular pieces from leaf margins. Damaged leaves appear ragged. Severe infestations may result in complete defoliation, particularly of young plants. The curved white larvae have dark heads and are found in the soil. Pea leaf weevils also feed on vetch, clover, and alfalfa.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Do not plant peas near clover, vetch, or alfalfa patches.
- Hand-pick any adults found on young plants. Older plants are seldom seriously damaged.
- Provide proper culture to maintain vigorously growing plants. Healthy plants can usually outgrow damage.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Always read and follow label directions when working with pesticides.
- For more information on using pesticides visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets | Pesticide Resources and Education Program | WSU.
- Also visit Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbooks.
- Do not apply within 3 days of harvest.
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.
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.