Stop Japanese Beetles: Effective Control Methods

Hand-Picking Japanese Beetles

For light infestations, the safest, cheapest method: pick beetles off plants by hand and drop into a bucket of soapy water.

Pesticides for Japanese Beetles

Available pesticides: look for carbaryl, acephate, permethrin. Organic neem-based pesticides and insecticidal soaps also work. Note: insecticidal soaps kill on contact but offer no residual protection.

Learn about 10 common garden pests and how to treat them.

Get Rid of Grubs

Adult beetles cause visible damage, but their larvae (grubs) harm lawns. Treating grubs kills most before they emerge as adults. Effective grub-killing products exist, including organic beneficial nematodes.

Learn more about stopping grubs.

Kill Japanese Beetles Quickly

Beetles release pheromones attracting others. Eliminate early arrivals before they invite more.

Learn more of the best ways to get rid of bugs.

Avoid Japanese Beetle Traps

University research shows traps worsen problems. They use pheromones to attract beetles, bringing more into your yard than they catch.

Timing

Beetles are most active above 85°F in still air. Be especially watchful during these conditions.

Pick the Right Plants

Japanese beetles eat hundreds of plants but tend to avoid:

• Arborvitae, Boxwood, Dogwood, Firs, Hemlock, Holly, Junipers, Lilac, Magnolia, Oaks, Pines, Redbud, Red maple, Rhododendron

See the secrets to eliminating other types of garden pests.

Easy Lawn-Care Tips

Easy Lawn-Care Tips