Japanese Beetle season here in the Northern Colorado Front Range is in full swing! But where did these pesky pests come from, why are they targeting my yard, and how do I get rid of them? Take a look at this blog post to learn more!
Beetles Be Gone! Dealing With Japanese Beetles On The Front Range
Japanese Beetles Are Back!
The beginning of July usually brings about the beginning of Japanese Beetle season, and boy are they back with a vengeance! If you have been battling these pesky pests, you are not alone, and we are here to help.
How Did Japanese Beetles Get Here?
The Japanese Beetle was first introduced to the Eastern United States 100+ years ago and has since made its way out West in the root balls of trees, shrubs, and turf. Their introduction into the Northern Colorado Front Range landscape has caused immense damage to our fragile ecosystem.
How Do I Identify Japanese Beetle Damage?
Japanese Beetles have very identifiable leaf damage. They “skeletonize” the leaf by eating away at the leaf in patches, leaving only a "skeleton” of the leaf when their meal is over. You may also be able to identify the beetle itself by its metallic green head and copper wing covers.
Help- They're Eating All My Plants! What Do I Do?!
One reason why Japanese Beetles are possibly the most frustrating pest is that the most effective way to save your plants from Japanese Beetles is to physically remove them from the plant. You should do this by hand-picking them off or shaking the plant/foliage over a bucket of soapy water. You should do this early in the morning while it is still cool and they are less likely to fly away. Take care not to squish any of the beetles during the removal process, as they can release a chemical that attracts more beetles into your landscape.
We do not recommend using any chemical treatments to save your existing plants, as these treatments still allow for the beetles to snack on your plant, only to fly away and die elsewhere with the damage already done.
We usually do not recommend using any traps, as they tend to draw even more beetles into your landscape; however, sometimes drastic infestations require intervention. If you do choose to use a trap, place it in a far corner of your property- away from any beloved plants (and away from your neighbor's plants too if you like them).
Why My Yard?
Japanese Beetles start as a large white grub that thrives in rich, lush sod lawns. They will eat the roots of the lawn, and in many cases cause dead patches of grass. When fully mature, the beetles will migrate to an area with more leafy foliage to munch on. This is another reason why Japanese Beetles are such a difficult pest to manage. Early grub intervention can be difficult, as they may be living in your neighbor’s lawn and migrating to yours later on for a snack on your rosebushes!
Fossil Creek Nursery Is Here To Help!
Our staff is always available for pest help and identification. Feel free to swing by the store with pictures or samples of any plant issues you are experiencing. Our experienced nursery professionals can help you find the best solution.
Click here to learn more about Japanese Beetles with CSU Extension
