Beetle Damage Preventing Crepe Myrtle Blooms: Permethrin Control

Beetle Damage Preventing Crepe Myrtle Blooms: Permethrin Control

Tiny holes at the bloom bases on a non-flowering crepe myrtle indicate beetles (likely Japanese beetle or similar) feeding on flower buds. The tree lacks blooms because buds are destroyed before opening.

Control

• Apply permethrin (Hi-Yield 38 Plus) as a trunk and canopy spray in early summer before beetle emergence.
• For systemic option: imidacloprid (Bayer Tree & Shrub) soil drench in spring.
• Collect beetles for ID at Extension office to confirm species and timing.
• Fertilize with 10-10-10 to support bloom production once pests are controlled.

Crepe myrtles also need full sun (6+ hours) to bloom well.