Control of Adult Beetles

Nonchemical:

•Hand collecting beetles may not be the most effective method of control, but it can be used when beetles are less numerous. Simply drop the beetles into a solution of soapy water where they will drown. A hand-held vacuum cleaner can also be used to remove beetles. Beetle presence on plants tends to attract more beetles, making their removal more critical.

•Planting less susceptible plants, such as boxwood, red maple, dogwood, holly, magnolia, oaks and lilac may be another alternative.

•Avoid traps to catch beetles. In most home landscapes, using one or more traps may do more harm than good. Traps attract more beetles into the area, many of which do not make it to the traps.

Chemical:

•Carbaryl, such as registered formulations of Sevin, can be used by homeowners as well as by commercial applicators. If you use carbaryl for beetles or other insect pests, be sure to check for spider mites. A mite “explosion” on plants with a few mites often occurs after an initial use of carbaryl.

•Other insecticides available for controlling Japanese beetles include acephate, cyfluthrin, imidacloprid and bifenthrin. Use products according to label directions.

Look for a product containing one of these ingredients. Make sure the particular insecticide is labeled for the plants to be treated.

The Shelby County Extension Office will offer a regional master gardener course in August.

Beginners or those interested in sharpening their gardening skills should contact Nelson D. Wynn at (205) 669-6763 or (205) 438-3725 for more information.