Flea beetles are a concern in many Manitoba canola fields.
Provincial Entomologist John Gavloski says foliar insecticide applications are underway in many areas.
Some farmers have also had to reseed canola fields due to the high numbers of flea beetles.
"It's almost a chronic thing to have, at least potentially damaging levels," said Gavloski. "There's just such an abundance of food for them across the Prairies that their levels have been built up."
He adds most seed treatments only last about three weeks, so if it's been longer than that, now is the time to scout.
As a guideline, when about 25% of the surface area of the cotyledons and true leaves have been damaged, and flea beetles are present, an insecticide would likely be economical. Once the third and fourth true leaves are expanded, the canola will likely be able to compensate for any remaining flea beetle feeding. Flea beetles feed most actively on canola when the weather is sunny, warm, and dry. Cool, damp weather reduces the intensity of feeding and aids plant growth.
Source : Steinbachonline