flea beetles

Rastagecko · July 13, 2007

I have a problem with flea beetles every year. Usually they are just a mild problem. The potatoes usually grow fast enough to keep ahead of the beetles and still produce a decent crop. With our dry weather this year, the plants are not fairing as well and a few have died without producing any tubers. I try not to use any chemicals in my garden, so I am looking for a good organic solution.
I am also looking for varieties that are resistant to flea beetles. I have heard that varieties with fuzzy foliage are not bothered by flea beetles, but not necessarily the best tasting. I am interested in colored potatoes, fingerlings, and ones with excellent flavor.
Any recommendations on organic solutions or resistant varieties?
James

**Tom Wagner** · July 19, 2007

I have many of those fuzzy leaf types you mention. Prince Harry is not so great flavored but the latest version, King Harry,(NY131) is a big improvement in flavor.

I am involved in creating all kinds of insect tolerant potato clones using various improved and will germplasm. Solanum berthaultii and other wild species are great sources of insect tolerance. If I get a chance, I'll post some photos of such lines for the readership. King Harry has been used in all color classes of potato crosses. Should have more info in the future. I think there is a future in the trichome haired potatoes.

I have had some flea beetle damage too, and in the tubers.

Tom Wagner

Rastagecko · July 22, 2007

Tom,
Thanks for the info. I will keep an eye out for your photos.
James

July 13, 2007	#1
Rastagecko Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2006 Location: Dennison, Ohio Posts: 6	flea beetles I have a problem with flea beetles every year. Usually they are just a mild problem. The potatoes usually grow fast enough to keep ahead of the beetles and still produce a decent crop. With our dry weather this year, the plants are not fairing as well and a few have died without producing any tubers. I try not to use any chemicals in my garden, so I am looking for a good organic solution. I am also looking for varieties that are resistant to flea beetles. I have heard that varieties with fuzzy foliage are not bothered by flea beetles, but not necessarily the best tasting. I am interested in colored potatoes, fingerlings, and ones with excellent flavor. Any recommendations on organic solutions or resistant varieties? James

July 19, 2007	#2
Tom Wagner Crosstalk™ Forum Moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: 8407 18th Ave West 7-203 Everett, Washington 98204 Posts: 1,157	I have many of those fuzzy leaf types you mention. Prince Harry is not so great flavored but the latest version, King Harry,(NY131) is a big improvement in flavor. I am involved in creating all kinds of insect tolerant potato clones using various improved and will germplasm. Solanum berthaultii and other wild species are great sources of insect tolerance. If I get a chance, I'll post some photos of such lines for the readership. King Harry has been used in all color classes of potato crosses. Should have more info in the future. I think there is a future in the trichome haired potatoes. I have had some flea beetle damage too, and in the tubers. Tom Wagner

July 22, 2007	#3
Rastagecko Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2006 Location: Dennison, Ohio Posts: 6	Tom, Thanks for the info. I will keep an eye out for your photos. James