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Japanese beetles, scientifically known as Popillia japonica, are invasive pests that can wreak havoc on gardens and crops. They are particularly troublesome because they feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruit of many plant species and can damage lawns by feeding on grass roots.
The damage caused by Japanese beetles is often easy to identify. Look for signs like skeletonized leaves, flowers with chewed or ragged petals, and fruits with holes or scars. In lawns, brown or dead patches can indicate the presence of Japanese beetle larvae feeding on grass roots. If Japanese beetles are troubling your garden, consider using these natural methods to get rid of them.
Grow Resistant Plant Varieties
To reduce the amount of Japanese beetle control, you need to grow plants such as boxwood or holly that are less attractive to Japanese beetles.
Companion Planting
Some plant species, such as garlic, chives, catnip, rue, larkspur, and tansy, can repel Japanese beetles. To reduce the risk of damage, grow these plants in and around more susceptible plants.
Handpicking
If small numbers of Japanese beetles are present, the quickest and most effective way to remove them is by picking each one off by hand and dropping them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them. The beetles appear from late spring onwards, so make a regular plant inspection part of your daily routine to stop this garden menace in its tracks.
Neem Oil
Neem oil kills adult Japanese beetles, their larvae, and eggs. Use it as a targeted spray in problem areas where Japanese beetles have been seed-feeding. Avoid widespread spraying of neem oil, as it can also harm beneficial insects.
Garlic Spray
The smell of garlic is a great way to deter beetles and many other troublesome garden pests. Peel a few garlic cloves, blend them in a food processor with a cup of water, and strain into a spray bottle. Reapply frequently for maximum effect.
Trap Crops
Certain plants, including borage, white geraniums, evening primroses, and zinnias, are highly attractive to Japanese beetles and will draw them in large numbers. Grow a patch of sacrificial plants to lure Japanese beetles away from other crops; the beetles can then be collected and killed.
Attract Natural Predators
Plant nectar-rich flowers to encourage beneficial insects like tachinid flies and parasitic wasps, which prey on Japanese beetles. Alyssum, cilantro, dill, daisies, and asters are preferred food sources for these natural pest control insects.
Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soap only works on contact and has no residual activity, so it must be sprayed directly onto every Japanese beetle you spot. When used carefully, this method is non-toxic to other beneficial insects.
Attract Birds
Install birdhouses to attract birds such as robins and cardinals that feed on Japanese beetles. Robins prefer a secluded nesting area such as a dense hedge where they can raise their young without being disturbed.
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Prune Infested Branches
Damaged leaves give off chemical signals that attract even more Japanese beetles to your garden. Regularly inspect plants and crops and carefully prune away any damaged leaves or branches.
Row Covers
When the larvae turn into adult Japanese beetles, they quickly fly to their preferred feeding sites. To minimize damage, protect vegetable crops with horticultural fleece or fine mesh row covers.
Kaolin Clay
Kaolin clay forms a thin barrier that prevents Japanese beetles from feeding on leaves. This is available in a spray that is simple to apply and gives instant results when used in areas prone to Japanese beetle infestations.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like peppermint, wintergreen, or lavender are known to repel Japanese beetles. Mix a few drops of oil with water in a spray bottle and a small amount of dish soap to help it disperse, and spray affected plants daily.
Watering Control
Japanese beetle grubs thrive in moist soil. Reducing moisture levels can help limit their development. To reduce Japanese beetle populations, switch to drought-tolerant plants and grasses and keep watering to a minimum.
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