Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are shiny metallic insects that often feed in groups.
They can skeletonize leaves and damage flowers quickly.
Identification
Adults have:
- Metallic green heads
- Copper-brown wing covers
- Small white tufts along the sides of the abdomen
Damage
They feed on:
- Roses
- Grapes
- Fruit trees
- Beans
- Flowers
- Many ornamentals
Leaves may become skeletonized.
Hand-Picking
For small gardens, knock beetles into soapy water.
Early morning works especially well because beetles are sluggish.
Don’t Use Pheromone Traps Near the Garden
Japanese beetle traps can attract large numbers of beetles.
They may increase feeding damage near the trap location.
Protect High-Value Plants
Lightweight row cover may protect some vegetables before flowering.
Fruit trees and large ornamentals require different strategies.
Grub Stage
Japanese beetle larvae live in soil and feed on turf roots.
Treating grubs is not always necessary unless lawn damage is significant.
GardenGrowz Tip
A bucket of soapy water can outperform a lot of complicated solutions in a small garden.