Tons of Little Black Bugs

[LtGrimms]

I recently found a ton of tiny black bugs on my kale and cabbages. I was wondering if anyone here could tell me what they are and what I can/could-have done to prevent these little buggers from showing up.

I'm not really into chemical pesticides. Would rather create an environment that might encourage a natural predator of these guys or just use some sort of netting next year.

This is my first year gardening, no experience, so please don't assume I know anything.

 

[YumYum]

They look like flea beetles. I can't tell how much you zoomed in but they look awfully big to be flea beetles though. I've killed flea beetles with 1 tbsp Dawn Ultra per gallon of water. Put water in first, then soap and shake because it will be very sudsy.

 

[LtGrimms]

They look like flea beetles. I can't tell how much you zoomed in but they look awfully big to be flea beetles though. I've killed flea beetles with 1 tbsp Dawn Ultra per gallon of water. Put water in first, then soap and shake because it will be very sudsy.

Thanks, I think you're right. I've been spraying them with castile soap and water mix which seems to be having a bit of a good effect. I think I'll get some diatomaceous earth and spread that around.

 

[cpp gardener]

To prevent them next year you can cover your cabbage and kale with a row cover. They let in light and water and keep out pests. Since neither of them require pollination, it won't impact production.