Japanese beetle destruction is easy to identify. Typically, you can catch the bugs doing any damage. The signs of Japanese beetle infestation include complete defoliation and skeletonized leaves. Also, Japanese beetles love to munch on rosebuds. The good news is you have several Japanese beetle control options.
Different Japanese Beetle Control Options
Play Defense
A multi-part assault is your best bet. Begin by spraying the infested plants with neem or Japanese Beetle Killer (pyrethrin) at the first indication that Japanese beetles are in your landscape.
Insecticide containing pyrethrin is an effective and safe way to control these pests on flowers, fruits, shrubs, and trees. Besides controlling Japanese beetles, pyrethrin restricts flea beetles, cabbageworms, cucumber beetles, Colorado potato beetles, and more.
When applying neem oil to plants, it diminishes feeding. Neem is most efficient when used at the first sign of Japanese beetle invasion.
Hand Pick
Japanese beetles move slowly. You can pick them off plants with your hands and throw them into some soapy water. Try this method early in the day when the beetles aren’t too prepared.
Trap
You should use a Japanese beetle trap only if you have a big landscape. You need to put the trap away from your garden. If you have a little yard, set a trap for 24 – 48 hours every few weeks.
Neem Oil
Not only does neem oil control Japanese beetles in their feeding frenzy, but it also manages a host of other pests such as mole crickets, pear slugs, gypsy moth caterpillars, stink bugs, rust mites, chinch bugs, and aphids.
Also, neem can be used on roses to stop diseases that affect roses like blackspot, mildew, rust, powdery mildew, scab, and more. Neem oil comes from a tree. So, you don’t have to worry about chemicals in your yard, harming your pets or children.
Even if you use beneficial nematodes and Milky Spore, you can still get an infestation of Japanese beetles. These beetles might be slow, but they will fly far for a good meal. Pyrethrin-based or neem sprays control these plagues.
If you believe Japanese beetles, or any other pests, have infested your trees, call us at Durham Tree Service.
