Mexican bean beetles look very similar to ladybugs. They have a tan back with black dots, and the younger ones do not have any spots. If left unchecked, they can destroy foliage and pods.
Treatment Options:
- Hand-picking and placing the beetle in a soapy water bucket is a great way to get rid of them.
- Companion planting potatoes can help prevent Mexican bean beetles.
- Placing insect netting (floating row covers) over your plants is a great way to prevent insect issues.
- Beneficial insects such as green lacewings, ladybugs, and praying mantis can be helpful to fight these beetle’s eggs and larvae.
- Yellow sticky traps have also been shown to be effective at catching these pests.
- Applying beneficial nematodes and neem oil can also be effective. Make sure not to apply the neem oil when the temperature is above 90, or else you could suffocate your plant!
Plants to Especially Watch:
Learn more about growing over 80 different foods, including how to manage various pests in our FREE iOS, Android, or new Universal Web App!
2 thoughts on “How to: Manage Mexican Bean Beetles in Your Garden”