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Japanese beetles, scientifically known as Popillia japonica, are highly invasive pests that can cause significant damage to gardens and crops. These beetles are problematic because they feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of many plant species, and their larvae harm lawns by feeding on grass roots.
The damage caused by Japanese beetles is often easy to spot. Signs include skeletonized leaves, chewed and ragged petals on flowers, and fruits with holes or scarring. In lawns, brown or dead patches indicate larvae feeding on grass roots. Plants particularly attractive to Japanese beetles include raspberries, roses, grapes, beans, and apples.
Despite the challenges in eliminating Japanese beetles, growing plants that deter or are resistant to them can help mitigate the problem. If Japanese beetles are causing issues in your garden, consider planting species that are less attractive to these pests. Here are some plants that are resistant to Japanese beetles:
Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
The common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is a member of the olive family (Oleaceae) and produces flowers in shades of purple, white, and pink. This low-maintenance plant thrives in USDA zones 3-9. Additionally, Japanese beetles generally avoid it, making it a suitable choice for gardens plagued by these pests.
Forsythia
Before the leaves appear, forsythia bushes are covered in bright yellow blooms early in the spring. These plants can grow up to 2-4 feet per year, reaching heights of 8-10 feet. They can be planted in a row for a colorful privacy fence offering seasonal interest and a splash of color. Japanese beetles tend to steer clear of this plant.
Holly
Many types of holly are popular for privacy screens as many are relatively fast-growing and reach heights of 15-25 feet. Their dense, dark green foliage and red berries in winter provide year-round interest. May holly varieties also produce red berries, adding to the unique appearance of the garden.
Rue
The rue plant is a hardy perennial herb known for its bluish-green, fern-like foliage and clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. This herb has a strong, repulsive scent to Japanese beetles but is attractive to beneficial insects like butterflies. Rue prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is ideal for zones 4-9, where it can thrive with limited care.
Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum)
Silver maples, also known as sugar maples, are fast-growing trees that are rarely targeted by Japanese beetles.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are known for their large blooms, which mimic the lush appearance of roses when grouped. Their color can vary widely depending on the soil’s pH. They thrive in morning sun and afternoon shade and require moist, rich, well-drained soil.
Marigolds
Plant marigolds in June for a splash of color by late summer. These hardy, pest-resistant flowers thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil, blooming continuously into the fall if deadheaded regularly. Marigolds often deter Japanese beetles, which is why they are considered one of the best companion plants.
Catnip
Catnip is effective in borders, herb gardens, and as ground cover, repelling common garden pests with its fragrance. It thrives in full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant. Trim midseason to refresh the plant.
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Onions
Like garlic, the strong scent of onions will help deter aphids and japenese beetles. Plant rows of onion around the borders of your zucchini to create an aromatic defense barrier.
Rocket Larkspur (Consolida Ajacis)
Rocket Larkspur, or Wild Delphinium, offers tall spikes of flowers in blue, white, pink, and purple, creating a stately effect in the garden. Due to its height, it prefers full sun or partial shade and may need staking. This plant is a cool-season favorite, sprouting on its own when seeds are sprinkled in the garden in late winter. Its soft fern-like foliage complements the striking flowers, making it a standout in ornamental borders.
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