This is a judgment call that growers have to make for themselves. After the straw is removed the frost protection irrigation equipment should be set up. Lost buds can relate to a direct loss of yield. Grapes will be in early swell to budbreak across the state over the next two weeks and these are the stages most likely to be damaged from flea beetles. Scout vineyards for these insects or their damage and control if necessary.
Damage appears as holes eaten into the sides of buds.
They crawl quickly along the canes and tend to drop to the ground if disturbed. Incidence often occurs in outer rows adjacent to fence rows or woods, making spot spraying an option. Scout the planting carefully and apply insecticides only where needed. Sevin or Penncap-M will provide excellent control of this insect. Refer to the label or ID-169 for complete recommendations.