The Asparagus Beetle: Organic Control Tips

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Illustration By Keith Ward
Asparagus beetles overwinter in plant debris, so removing fronds in winter will reduce their numbers.

This article is part of ourOrganic Pest Control Series, which includes articles on attracting beneficial insects, controlling specific garden pests, and using organic pesticides.   

The most common of asparagus pests, asparagus beetles weaken plants when fed upon by adults and larvae. Organic methods of asparagus beetle control include handpicking, and gathering up and composting old asparagus foliage and berries. Originally from Europe, asparagus beetles are now found throughout North America, wherever asparagus is grown.

What Are Asparagus Beetles? 

The common asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi) is the most prevalent asparagus pest that damages young asparagus spears. Overwintering as an adult, this slender, elongated beetle bears four white or yellowish spots on its wings, is reddish underneath and on the wing edges, and has a dark-red thorax. It is 1/4 to 1/3 inch long. 

The spotted asparagus beetle (Crioceris duodecimpunctata) is also quite colorful. In the western United States, the spotted asparagus beetle is bright pumpkin orange with tiny black dots on its wings. In other areas, the background color of spotted asparagus beetles can be red to dark red. The antennae of both asparagus pests measure about half its body length.

  • Updated on Jan 16, 2021
  • Originally Published on Jan 16, 2013
Tagged with: Barbara Pleasant, beetles, insect predators, pests
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