Japanese Beetles Making a Comeback

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I have received numerous reports and pictures from southern and central Ohio of heavy localized Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) populations.  Infestations are not widespread; however, where they are occurring beetles are being found in high numbers feeding on a wide range of hosts from favorite foods such wild grape, linden trees, and roses to some unusual hosts such as oak.  Dan Potter (Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky) has also reported high populations in Lexington, KY.

Japanese Beetle Damage on Oak
Japanese Beetle Damage on Oak

 

CAUTION:  while traditional insecticides such as pyrethroids can provide effective control, they can also kill pollinators.  As always, read and follow product label directions.  DO NOT spray insecticides on or allow drift to fall upon plants in bloom.