2021 has been the year of the Japanese beetles. We see so many this year in our nursery. The beetles love roses, Rose of Sharon, weeping cherry trees, purple plum trees, and many more ornamentals.
the best control for Japanese beetles is a bust such as Sevin (carbyl) or Eight. When beetles try to attack, they drop off with the dust on the leaf. The best time to apply dust is evening or early morning when the dew is on the leaves. you can also use liquid Sevin or Eight. We do not recommend beetle traps, because it lures more beetles into the area. The ingredient that attracts the beetles is a pheromone. So, if your neighbors don’t use traps, you will attract their beetles too. So, please do not use beetle traps. be persistent in “dusting” until late July or by mid August.
Good luck!
