Insects Insects can cause serious yield losses, so growers should monitor fields closely for problems. Flea beetles and diamondback moth caterpillars have been the most troublesome insects. Overwintered flea beetles may attack the crop as soon as the young seedlings emerge from the ground. The insects chew tiny holes in the leaves and give the plant a shot-holed appearance. Where infestations are heavy, crops can be severely damaged or even destroyed.
Cultural methods can help to reduce plant losses from flea beetles.
A firm seedbed that is well tilled and adequately fertilized will help plants to outgrow beetle damage during the susceptible early season stages. The use of malathion will control flea beetles and the diamondback moth caterpillar. For information about your local area, contact your county extension agent. Diseases Several diseases attack mustard. Do not include mustard in crop rotation systems containing crops such as sunflower, rapeseed, dry edible beans, crambe or safflower.