Japanese Beetle
Japanese Beetles create havoc in area gardens by feeding on ornamental trees, shrubs, perennials and lawns. They begin life as a grub feeding on plant roots, maturing into adult beetles that feed on flowers and foliage. Japanese beetles are especially troublesome insect pests not only because they feed above ground and below ground, but also because they can occur in huge numbers capable of destroying lawns and gardens in a very short period of time. Fortunately, there are several different strategies to control this pest. A review of the history and life cycle of the Japanese Beetle may help you to decide on the best method of controlling this pest in your garden.
LIFE CYCLE
The Japanese Beetle was accidentally imported into this country in 1916 and has spread throughout the northeast and mid-Atlantic regions. Adult beetles emerge from the ground in late June or early July and live for 30-45 days. During this time, they feed on many favorite landscape plants including Crape Myrtle, Flowering Cherry, Grape, Hibiscus, Contorted Filbert, Linden, Roses and many others. Japanese Beetles have been reported feeding on almost 300 different plant species.
In late July to early August, the female will burrow into the soil, lay eggs and die. The eggs hatch within two weeks and the emerging grubs (larvae) begin feeding on plant roots. The grubs often concentrate in lawns where the dense, fibrous roots provide ample food. The grubs continue feeding and growing until cold temperatures drive them deep into the ground where they wait out the winter months. As spring approaches, the grubs resume feeding until reaching maturity in late spring.
CONTROL
To kill these beetles, use ONE of the following insecticides: (Please refer to the lawn care bulletins for information on grub control)
MALATHION, MERIT, METHOXYCHLOR, SEVIN, or TEMPO; repeat applications as necessary.
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS WHEN USING PESTICIDES.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL
Traps can be used to reduce the number of Japanese Beetles, but will not provide total control of this pest. Traps should be placed 25' or more downwind from the plants you are trying to protect and placed 4'-5' above the ground.
Follow the direction on the trap you purchase as they vary with each type of trap.