If your leaves look speckled with tiny holes as if they were hit with fine pellets, flea beetles are likely the cause.
What They Look Like
Flea beetles are very small, dark beetles that move quickly and jump when disturbed.
They are often black, brown, or metallic and can be difficult to see because of their size and speed.
You will usually notice the damage before you ever see the insects.
Flea Beetles:
Damage Signs
Tiny round holes scattered across leaves
Leaves appear speckled, lacy, or peppered with damage
Seedlings may look weakened or stunted
Heavy damage can slow growth or kill young plants
Plants Affected
Brassicas such as cabbage, broccoli, kale, and radishes
Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant
Lettuce and leafy greens
Potatoes
Occasionally corn and squash
Fast Control (Start Here)
Protect young plants immediately with row covers
Focus on seedlings and transplants, which are most vulnerable
Keep plants growing quickly to outpace damage
Act early before populations build
Additional Control Options
Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap to affected plants
Repeat treatments during active feeding periods
Use stronger products only if damage continues
Support plant recovery with consistent watering
Prevention
Use row covers early in the season to block access
Remove debris and weeds where beetles overwinter
Plant densely or stagger plantings to reduce impact
Use trap crops such as radishes to draw beetles away
Encourage healthy plant growth so plants can recover from minor damage
Notes for Gardeners
Damage often appears suddenly early in the growing season
Seedlings are at the greatest risk
Mature plants usually recover, but early damage can set them back
Row covers are far more effective than trying to control beetles after damage begins
