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Green Beetles on Rose of Sharon: Identification and Control

Neon Green Beetles on Hibiscus syriacus in Michigan

Three-year-old Rose of Sharon has vibrant neon green beetles congregating near flowers in large groups. Owner wants ID and danger assessment. Not boxelder bugs, aphids, or thrips.

Expertise Note

Rose specialist, but Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus) is related. Suggests checking bugguide.net for visual ID.

General Beetle Control

Organic: Hand-pick early morning into soapy water
Chemical: Orthene (acephate) systemic insecticide
Act before they cause significant defoliation

Plant Health

Three years of growth indicates good care. Beetles are likely seasonal visitors, not chronic infestation.

Roses: Rose of Sharon Bloom Failure: Thrips and Wet Soil Investigation; Eradicating Rose of Sharon Seedlings and Root Suckers; Identifying and Controlling Rose Bud Pests in the Pacific Northwest; Japanese Beetle Damage on Knockout Roses: Identification and Control; Aphids on Knockout Roses – Marketing Myth vs. Reality; Green Bugs on Knock Out® Roses: Identification & Systemic Treatment; Sudden Fly Infestation on Roses in New Mexico; Transplanting and Pruning Overgrown Rose of Sharon and Lilac in Zone 6a: Fall Timing and Methods; Eradicating Invasive Rose of Sharon Without Chemicals; Rose of Sharon Seed Bugs: Harmless Seed Eaters

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