FLEA BEETLES

Kathleen, one of the gardeners at the Community Garden, spotted flea beetles on her recently planted brassicas.  These beetles were also found in other plots at the garden.  After some research, she purchased some diatomaceous earth and sprinkled it on the leaves, stems and on the soil surrounding the plants.

Flea beetles dining on brassica leaves

                                                                                    Damage caused by flea beetles 

Kathleen applying diatomaceous earth

Brassica plants after an application of diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural sedimentary rock made up of fossilized remains of microscopic, single-celled aquatic organisms called diatoms.  The rock easily crumbles into powdery particles with sharp, abrasive edges.  The particles scratch the exoskeleton of the beetles, absorbing their bodily oil, causing them to rapidly dehydrate and die.  Because it is only effective when dry, applications of the diatomaceous earth are necessary after a rain.  A food grade diatomaceous earth is the safe and organic product for use in the garden.

Some of the benefits of being part of a community garden are the ability to learn from other gardeners and for garden members to raise alerts to potential problems in the garden.  It is also great to share successes.  At the Community Garden at Howe Farm, folks see what others are growing, introduce new produce and growing techniques and support each other in a multitude of ways.

One of the ways that we help each other at the community garden.

If you can't start a garden at your home, why not join your local community garden or establish one with friends?