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White flies or leaf boring flies #924722

Asked February 17, 2026, 8:23 PM EST

Ive been growing a small garden for the last 10 years or so without pesticides but recently have had difficulty getting my beets to grow due to leaf borer infestation. My garden is near my chicken coop which is a recent change. Is there a variety I might try or something to try short of a pesticide that might help?

Montezuma County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Shane!

I'm not finding information on any beet varieties with greater leaf miner resistance but I have some resources that list cultural practices including rotating where you are planting beets, tillage and weed control that may help reduce damage.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/hosts-pests/beet-table-leafminer

https://extension.usu.edu/vegetableguide/root-crops/beet-leafminer

Please email me with further questions at <personal data hidden>
Best,

Emily

An Ask Extension Expert Replied February 19, 2026, 5:01 PM EST

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