Spotted Cucumber Beetles, Striped cucumber beetles, western striped cucumber beetle, southern corn rootworm, Western corn rootworm beetles

Acalymma spp., Diabrotica undecimpunctata

Physical Description:

RVGPS-158: little yellow beetles with stripes or spots (very much like a ladybug, but with yellow-green instead of red background). Striped cucumber beetles can overwinter in most parts of the US & Canada. A similar species, the western striped cucumber beetle is only found in the western states. It will feed on snap bean pods as well as seedlings of a variety of crops. The larval stage of the spotted cucumber beetle is the southern corn rootworm, which can cause serious damage to corn crops. Western corn rootworm beetles look similar to cucumber beetles but have yellow abdomens and shorter stripes on the wings.

Refrigerator Pickles

Audrey's Pickles (Organic Gardening, Aug/Sep 2010)

Yield:

Makes 2 quarts, about 18 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 lb med cucumbers (pick first thing in the morning, for best flavor; select ones that are free of mold, insect damage, blemishes and soft spots)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp whole mustard seed
• 1 tsp fresh dill weed
• 1 whole dried bay leaf
• 2/3 C brown sugar
• 6 1/2 Tbs white distilled vinegar
• 6 1/2 Tbs white wine vinegar
• 3/4 C water

  Optional Additions:

• more fresh garlic
• pinch of crushed red pepper
• a few chopped jalapenos or a habanero
• Ancho peppers will add a peppery boldness
• chipotle chiles will give the pickles a rich & spicy smoked flavor

Directions:

1. Thoroughly wash the cucumbers and assemble the spices.
2. Cut the cucumbers into spears or slices and place in a 2-quart container or jar with a lid.
3. Add the garlic, peppercorns, mustard seed, dill weed, and bay leaf.
4. Stir together the brown sugar, vinegars and water.
5. Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and shake the jar well to combine.
6. Cover and chill for at least 24 hours for the fullest flavor. They will keep up to 3-months in the refrigerator.