Problem Info

The tissue between the leaf veins is eaten, giving the leaves a lacelike appearance. Copper-colored beetles about 1/4 inch long feed on the undersides of the skeletonized leaves. The beetles have sixteen black spots on their backs. Orange to yellow soft-bodied grubs, about 1/3 inch long with black-tipped spines on their backs, may also be present. Leaves dry up, and the plant may die.

Solution Advice

Apply a garden insecticide labeled for Mexican bean beetle when the adults first appear, following the instructions. Remove and destroy all plant debris after the harvest to reduce overwintering spots for adults.

Product Recommendations

• Ortho® Flower, Fruit & Vegetable Insect Killer Concentrate