Like most garden vegetables, though, beans are not foolproof. An infestation of bean leaf beetles, Ceratoma trifucata, can decimate any type of bean crop so early intervention is essential.

The Odessa American is the leading source of local news, information, entertainment and sports for the Permian Basin.

Mexican bean beetles are plant-feeders in the same family as ladybird beetles (ladybugs)—most of which are beneficial predators. Adults overwinter and emerge with warm weather. Adults feed on tender ...