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  • Japanese Beetles on Strawberries

    Created by Anonymous on

    Well I have a few of these little buggers going after my strawberry plants, anyone ever use the Japanese beetle traps they sell? Any other ideas on how to control them?
    Thanks,
    Jon

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  • #13966

    lilypotter
    Member

    Milky Spore powder is an amazing product developed for gardeners. Organic and natural, Milky Spore kills off Japanese beetle grubs that damage the lawn by: (a) chewing on grass roots and (b) attracting moles who love to eat those grubs.

    #202898

    Eric Vinje
    Keymaster

    Hi Jon –

    Incredibly destructive, Japanese beetles are found in almost every state east of the Mississippi. The young larvae often damage lawns by feeding on grass roots, while adults are a problem on trees, shrubs, fruits, gardens and most ornamentals plants. To keep them off plants and out of your garden consider the following control methods.

    • Hand pick or shake adult Japanese beetles onto ground sheets in the early morning or late evening. Drop them into a pail of soapy water and discard.
    • Pheromone lures and traps will catch large numbers of beetles, thus reducing their numbers. Do NOT place traps inside your garden. It is best to place them around the perimeter of your property.
    • Beneficial Nematodes and Milky Spore Disease will kill the larvae/ grubs in the soil.
    • Floating Row Covers create an effective barrier and prevent adults from attacking most plants, including strawberries.
    • As a last resort, spot treat problem areas with a short-lived botanical insecticide. Safer® Yard & Garden Insect Killer will get the job done and breaks down quickly in the environment.

    https://www.planetnatural.com/pest-problem-solver/lawn-pests/japanese-beetle-control/

    Hope this helps!

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