Spotted Cucumber Beetle
MODERATEDiabrotica undecimpunctata
Overview
A screenshot from my friend @west87363 ‘s video. We observed the same individual insect but I wasn’t able to capture it on camera like he did.
- Type
- Insect
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Targeted Insecticide Application
Apply appropriate insecticide following label directions. Timing is critical — treat during the vulnerable larval or adult emergence stage for maximum effectiveness.
Biological Control Agents
Introduce or encourage natural predators and parasitoids. Options include releasing predatory beetles, parasitic wasps, or applying Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar pests.
Infested Material Removal
Prune and destroy infested branches and plant material. Remove fallen debris that may harbor eggs or larvae. Dispose of material away from healthy trees.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Spotted Cucumber Beetle. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
As an Amazon Associate, TreeIssues may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through these links — at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spotted Cucumber Beetle?
A screenshot from my friend @west87363 ‘s video. We observed the same individual insect but I wasn’t able to capture it on camera like he did.
What are the symptoms of Spotted Cucumber Beetle?
Where is Spotted Cucumber Beetle currently found?
Spotted Cucumber Beetle is currently active in California, Illinois, New Mexico, New York, Indiana, Missouri, Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Virginia, Maryland, Michigan, Arkansas, Iowa, Oregon, Ohio, North Carolina, Kentucky, Washington, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Nebraska, Minnesota, Alabama, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Colorado, Tennessee, West Virginia. It has been reported in 31 total states across the United States.
How do I treat Spotted Cucumber Beetle?
Treatment options for Spotted Cucumber Beetle include: Targeted Insecticide Application, Biological Control Agents, Infested Material Removal. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.