Grow a few more plants than you need to make up for any losses.
Green beans are less vulnerable to insect pests than other garden vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and tomatoes, but occasionally they may come under attack. Holes in the leaves are likely the work of hungry insect marauders. Take a wait and see approach before taking more drastic measures. The bean plants will probably recover on their own as insects move on. Does this Spark an idea?
Possible Causes
The most likely source of the problem is bean leaf beetles, which chew round or oval holes in the leaves but generally leave the veins intact. Other insects such as aphids, Mexican bean beetles, leafhoppers, seed corn maggots and mites may also eat beans. Look on the undersides of the leaves for insects. Aphids produce honeydew, a sticky substance found on the leaves and soil.
Controlling Damage
Insects generally feed on green bean plants late in the season when the harvest is almost over, minimizing the potential damage. As long as they don't eat through the stems of the leaves, your plants will probably recover. Plant flowering herbs and perennials, such as dill, fennel and coneflower, near your garden to attract beneficial predatory insects that will eat the pests. Spray bean leaves with a steady stream of water to dislodge aphids and other leafsucking insects. Remove beetles by hand and drop them in a cup of hot soapy water, or set sticky traps on the soil next to the beans.
Pesticide Use
Use pesticides only after exploring all other options. Identify the pest before applying a pesticide, and use the least toxic product first. Some possible options include insecticidal soaps, pyrethrin, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and beneficial nematodes. Follow the directions carefully, and remember that even organic pesticides may be toxic to beneficial insects, birds and aquatic life.
Considerations
To minimize insect infestations, rotate crops annually so they don't grow in the same place. Interplant beans with dill, marigolds or onions to repel insects. Strong-smelling herbs such as basil and mint may mask the smell of beans or confuse pests. Remove weeds from around bean plants and keep the soil evenly moist. Healthy plants are better able to withstand insect infestations.
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