What is eating my amaranth?
Flea beetles can indeed be a nuisance in the garden, and it seems like they have been particularly bad this year for you, especially on your amaranth plants. Flea beetles are small, jumping insects that feed on the leaves of many different plants, including amaranth. They get their name from their ability to jump like fleas when disturbed.
Flea beetles can cause significant damage to the leaves of plants, resulting in a loss of vigor and reduced yield. The adult beetles chew small holes in the leaves, giving them a characteristic “shot-hole” appearance. This feeding damage can stunt the growth of the plants and make them more susceptible to other pests and diseases.
There are several species of flea beetles that may be affecting your amaranth plants, including the striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata) and the crucifer flea beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae). These beetles are particularly attracted to young, tender plants and can quickly multiply and spread throughout the garden if not controlled.
There are a few strategies you can employ to manage flea beetles and protect your amaranth plants:
1. Physical barriers: One effective way to reduce flea beetle damage is by using floating row covers. These lightweight, breathable fabrics can be placed over the plants, creating a barrier that prevents the beetles from reaching the leaves. Row covers should be installed as soon as the plants are transplanted or emerge from seeds and kept in place until flowering begins.
2. Crop rotation: Flea beetles can overwinter in the soil, so rotating your amaranth plants to a different location in the garden each year can help disrupt their life cycle. By planting amaranth in a different spot, you reduce the chances of the beetles finding and infesting your plants.
3. Trap crops: Another strategy is to plant trap crops that are more attractive to flea beetles than your amaranth plants. These sacrificial plants divert the beetles away from your main crop and can be removed or treated with insecticides once infested. Some common trap crops for flea beetles include radishes, mustard greens, and arugula.
4. Companion planting: Certain plants have natural repellent properties that can help deter flea beetles. For example, interplanting your amaranth with aromatic herbs like basil, thyme, or catnip may repel the beetles and reduce their feeding damage. Additionally, planting flowers such as marigolds or calendula around your amaranth can attract beneficial insects that prey on flea beetles.
5. Organic insecticides: If the infestation is severe and other methods are not providing enough control, you may consider using organic insecticides labeled for flea beetle control. These can include products containing spinosad, neem oil, or pyrethrin. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully and apply the insecticide during the recommended times to minimize harm to beneficial insects.
It’s important to note that flea beetles can be persistent, and a combination of strategies may be necessary for effective control. Regular monitoring of your plants is crucial so that you can take action early if you notice signs of infestation. By implementing these management techniques, you can help protect your amaranth plants and minimize the damage caused by these pesky flea beetles.
