Mexican Bean Beetles Are Not Ladybugs in Yellow Costumes

We still have gardeners who think Mexican Bean Beetles are their friends some type of alternative ladybug.

It's bean beetle battle season. First it was a neighbor's beans. Almost all she grew and they were swarming with bean beetles. Two plots over. Now my beansa are coming in nicely but the beetles found them. Everyday, when possible, I inspect the plants. first a worms view to find the nymphs and clusters of yellow eggs, then birds eye view for the beetles. The only thing to do is squish them.

My bush beans are beginning to produce too. One these plants get past the being nibbled by rolley polleys stage they're fine until the beetles find them too. The key is constance survalence. I havested the last of the turnips. Harlequin bugs got their leaves, but the late leaves weren't great to eat kind of bitter and gritty. I have enough turnips to roast with potatoes and to make a small batch of Asa zuki. MMMM