The tachinid fly Celatoria diabrotica is a predator of the spotted cucumber beetle but may not be effective in substantailly reducing cucumber beetle numbers. Use a botanical insecticide if damage is intolerable. Treat with a registered insecticide when seedlings emerge from soil if damage appears. Repeat at 5 day intervals as needed. To avoid injury to tender foliage, do not apply when rain or humidity is expected during the next 2 days.
Pesticides kill bees.
Applying pesticides between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m puts the bees at greatest risk. Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes. Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only.