Can Fleas Eat Plants?

Fleas are small insect pests that attack plants, especially young ones. They feed on the roots, leaves, and tubers of the host plant. They are also known as flea beetles. Fleas are a problem because they can spread viral diseases from plant to plant.

The damage caused by flea beetles to plants is distinctive, with small holes and pits in the leaves. These are a result of the heavy feeding of the insect. The damage tends to be worst in spring and early summer, but decreases as the season progresses.

Flea beetles can feed on many plants, including fruits and vegetables. Among these are grapes, cotton, peanuts, and oats. They can be controlled with pyretle sprays, yellow sticky traps, and floating row covers. If you have a garden, it is essential to identify and control these pests.

You can also try to grow plants that repel fleas. Citronella, which is best known as a mosquito repellent, has a waxy-looking leaf that repels fleas. Other plants, such as chamomile, can also be used as repellents.

Flea beetles are tiny jumping insects that feed on plants. They can cause serious damage to young plants. Severe infestations can even kill plants. They can also damage the appearance of plants. This is especially important in leafy vegetables and some ornamental flowers.