Japanese Beetles

Identification

Japanese Beetles are ½ inch in length with metallic blue-green heads, copper-colored backs, tan wings, and small white hairs lining each side of the abdomen

Damage

Japanese beetles usually feed in groups on leaves.

Prevention

Remove diseased and poorly nourished trees as well as any prematurely ripening or diseased fruits, which can attract Japanese beetles.

Physical control

Cover plants with floating row cover and leave in place until harvest. You can also hand-pick both the adults and the larvae.

Chemical control

It is highly recommended to try physical prevention/control methods before resorting to chemical control. Neem or spinosad-based products may help to manage Japanese beetles. Check local regulations (or your local Extension Office where applicable) to identify which products can be used in home gardens in your area. Follow label instructions carefully for safe and effective insecticide application and to ensure that edible crops are safe to harvest. Test insecticide on a few plants before widespread application. Look for the most selective insecticide to minimize harm to beneficial insects- even some “selective” and "natural" insecticides can still negatively impact beneficial insects. Where possible, apply contact-based insecticides in the late evening and try to avoid spraying during blooming to minimize negative impacts on pollinators- in some cases the insecticide may need to be hosed off in the morning to avoid contact with pollinators. Do not spray spinosad on flowering plants.