One natural and effective way to control Mexican bean beetles is by using Milky Spore Powder. While this product is primarily known for its ability to kill Japanese beetles, some gardeners have reported success in using it to kill Mexican bean beetle larvae as well. What’s great about Milky Spore Powder is that it is OMRI certified, meaning it is safe to use on organic gardens.
To use Milky Spore Powder, you will first need to determine the appropriate application rate for your garden. This can usually be found on the product label or packaging. The general rule of thumb is to apply one teaspoon of Milky Spore Powder every four feet in a grid pattern. This ensures that the spores are evenly distributed throughout your garden.
Before applying the powder, it is important to prepare your garden beds. Clear away any debris or dead plant material, as this can harbor overwintering beetles or larvae. Additionally, ensure that your plants are well-watered prior to application, as this will help the spores adhere to the soil.
Once your garden beds are prepped, it’s time to apply the Milky Spore Powder. Sprinkle the powder evenly over the soil surface, making sure to cover the entire affected area. You can use a handheld spreader or simply sprinkle it by hand.
After application, lightly water your garden beds to help the spores settle into the soil. Milky Spore Powder works by infecting the larvae of Japanese beetles (and potentially Mexican bean beetles) with a bacteria that causes disease and ultimately kills them. The spores multiply in the larvae, releasing more spores into the soil, and creating a continuous cycle of control.
It’s important to note that Milky Spore Powder is not an immediate solution. It takes time for the spores to establish and spread throughout your garden. It typically takes one to three years for the spores to build up to effective levels. However, once established, the bacteria can remain active in the soil for up to 15 years, providing long-lasting control.
In addition to using Milky Spore Powder, there are other natural methods you can employ to control Mexican bean beetles. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Handpicking: Inspect your plants regularly and remove any beetles or larvae you find. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them.
2. Companion planting: Some plants, such as marigolds and tansy, are known to repel Mexican bean beetles. Consider interplanting these companion plants with your beans to deter the beetles.
3. Row covers: Use lightweight fabric row covers to physically exclude beetles from your plants. Be sure to remove the covers when plants begin to flower to allow for pollination.
4. Neem oil: Spraying your plants with neem oil can help repel Mexican bean beetles. Follow the instructions on the product label for proper application.
By combining these natural methods, including the use of Milky Spore Powder, you can effectively manage and control Mexican bean beetles in your garden without resorting to synthetic pesticides. Happy gardening!
