Common
asparagus beetle

Control common asparagus beetle biologically

Crioceris asparagi

The common asparagus beetle is an approximately 7 mm long, blue-green to blue-black colored beetle with a red neck shield. It is a common pest of asparagus crops. Its elytra each have three yellow spots and a red margin.

The olive-green larvae of the common asparagus beetle are about 8 mm long and have three pairs of legs.


Life cycle of the common asparagus beetle

The common asparagus beetle overwinters as a beetle. From April/May onwards, egg-laying (about 100 eggs per female) takes place on the asparagus foliage. The beetles attach their eggs vertically to the shoots. After 5 - 12 days the larvae of the first generation appear. Another 15 - 20 days later, the larvae pupate in the soil in a web. In summer, the larvae of the second generation appear.

 

Damage caused by common asparagus beetles


Both the adult common asparagus beetle and its larvae damage the plant by feeding on the aboveground parts of the plant, especially the shoot.


On which plants are common asparagus beetles found?

Common asparagus beetles attack asparagus plants. Especially the young plants are affected.


Control common asparagus beetles with beneficial nematodes


Nematodes are tiny, thread-like soil organisms about 0.6 mm long. They are natural enemies of the common asparagus beetle. Certain nematode species specialize on the common asparagus beetle, among others, and can use their larvae for their own feeding and reproduction. The nematodes are supplied alive in a powder. For application, they should be mixed with water exactly according to package directions and applied to the affected areas.


What stages of the common asparagus beetle can I control?

From mid-June, the larvae present in the soil can be controlled with nematodes

 

Product against asparagus beetle larvae

Control larvae of the common asparagus beetle biologically and effectively