Plant guide:ðĨĶ Broccoli
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Pests
Flea Beetles on Broccoli Seedlings
Commonly affects: Brassica oleracea var. italica (Broccoli)
Numerous small, round holes riddle young leaves, giving them a 'shotgun' perforated appearance, with tiny jumping beetles visible when disturbed.
Potential Causes
- 1Flea beetle adults feeding heavily on young seedlings, most active in warm, dry spring weather
- 2Seedlings being most vulnerable before they develop tougher, more mature leaves
- 3Nearby weeds or brassica relatives harbouring beetle populations
Solution Steps
- 1Use floating row covers over young transplants during peak flea beetle season
- 2Apply diatomaceous earth around seedlings for a physical deterrent
- 3Keep the surrounding area free of weeds that harbour overwintering beetles
- 4Transplant robust, larger seedlings rather than direct-sowing where flea beetle pressure is severe
Prevention Tip
Flea beetles target young, tender seedlings almost exclusively â protecting plants with row covers through this vulnerable stage prevents most damage.
