Tomato: Colorado potato beetle
Photo by: Clemson University
Biology
The adult Colorado potato beetle is a broad (1⁄4″ wide), yellow-and-black striped beetle up to about 3⁄8″ in length. The adults overwinter in the soil, emerging in the spring. They lay clusters of yellow eggs on the underside of the leaves of host plants. The humpbacked larvae are reddish-orange and have two rows of black spots along each side. Both larvae and adults chew holes in leaves and leaf margins. They may cause serious defoliation. Other plants which may be attacked include pepper, potato, petunia, and other tomato relatives including weeds such as nightshade and groundcherry.
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!
- Eliminate weeds in and around the garden, especially nightshade and related species.
- Hand-pick and kill adults and larvae.
- Crop rotation to non-host plants may be useful if host species are not planted nearby.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Always read and follow label directions when working with pesticides.
For more information on using pesticides visit :
- Follow label instructions.
- Apply when beetles or damage begins to appear.
- Beneficial nematodes can be ordered through certain nurseries.
- They may control the larval stage if applied when soil temperatures are warmer than 52° F.
- Nematodes should not be applied in direct sunlight and the soil should be saturated with water prior to application.
Approved Pesticides
If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation. Always read and follow all label directions.
Additional Images
Photo by: Unknown
Photo by: Unknown
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Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.