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Words: 449 Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney

Please leave resource box intact with an active link, and send a courtesy copy of publication in which article appears to: marilynp@nctc.net --------------------------------------- Flea beetles are more of a nuisance than a threat to a healthy garden. But if found on seedlings they can kill plants. On larger, well-established plants they do little harm. However, in corn and potatoes flea beetles can transmit serious diseases. Potato beetles may transmit early blight. Corn flea beetles can transmit a bacterium called Stewart's Wilt.

The adults are tiny ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 inch long and are various colors, including black, greenish or bluish black, green or yellow. They have enlarged hind legs which enable them to jump like fleas. The larvae are slender, white grubs which feed on roots, tubers, and lower stems underground.

Flea beetles overwinter as adults among debris in or near fields or host plants. At end of year remove plants and surface debris to remove hibernating material.

Eggs are deposited in soil near bases of host plants and may require a week or more to hatch. Treating soil with beneficial nematodes can help control larvae.

When planting flowers, it is important to remember to follow instructions on tag for plant. Always buy plants that will thrive in conditions in which you intend to grow them. A plant that loves sun won't do well in a shady area and you will only be disappointed with results.

When planning your garden, be aware of bloom time of flowers. Planting perennials with different bloom times near each other will insure a garden that has blooms all season long. Remember also to plan for height of plants, putting taller ones in back.

Below is a list of favorite blue flowering plants that you might want to consider for your garden:

Polemonuim, Blue Pearl - A compact plant with deep sky blue flowers that grows to 10". It blooms in late spring to early summer. Plant in partial shade and in well drained soil.

Blue Sea Holly - This dramatic plant has a lavender blue cone like flower with long spiked petals. It grows to 30" and is a favorite for dried flower arrangements. Plant in full sun - blooms in mid to late summer.

Delphinium, Butterfly Blue - Bright blue delicate flowers adorn this plant that blooms in early to mid summer. It reaches 10" tall and prefers a sunny location with rich moist soil.

Campanula, Blue Carpet - Bright blue to lilac colored flowers bloom for weeks in middle of summer. This low growing perennial grows to 4" and prefers full sun with well drained soil.