Soil insect pests can be extremely problematic in Louisiana sweet potato production. The majority of insect damage in sweet potato occurs on the root surface and consists of unattractive scars and holes. The market tolerance for this cosmetic injury is very low, and minimal insect damage can drastically affect the marketability of the crop.

Cucumber beetles (rootworms) are significant insect pests of sweet potatoes in Louisiana. Adults and larvae of these insects feed on sweet potatoes, but larvae are the most damaging. Descriptions of the banded cucumber beetle and the spotted cucumber beetle, as well as management strategies for these insects, are included in this publication. (PDF Format Only)

This publication deals with some of the insects that attack sweet potatoes in Louisiana. It covers such pests as beet armyworms, soybean loopers and cabbage loopers and includes background information, descriptions of the pests and details on the damage they can cause. PDF format only.