Rapeseed flea infestations threaten German crops

Farmers in Germany, particularly in East Germany, are facing significant threats to young rapeseed crops due to a massive increase in rapeseed flea populations. The pest activity has escalated sharply over the past two weeks, causing extensive leaf damage.

Monitoring via the ISIP information platform shows a significant rise in pest pressure. Experts advise that the damage threshold is reached when 10 percent of the leaf area is destroyed up to the three-leaf stage. For plants in the 4-to-6-leaf stage, the threshold is set at 50 beetles within a three-week period.

Rapeseed stands that emerge unevenly are at the highest risk, as new plants are often consumed before they can fully establish themselves. To protect crops, farmers are encouraged to monitor populations using yellow bowls and, where legally permitted, utilize insecticides such as pyrethroids like lambda-cyhalothrin.