Prevent Japanese Beetle Damage With These Organic Pest Control Tips

By Barbara Pleasant
Published on May 1, 2013
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Illustration By Keith Ward
In late spring, when Japanese beetle larvae are close to the soil surface, letting wild, bug-eating birds such as robins or bluebirds work over the area can have a lasting impact.

This article is part of ourOrganic Pest Control Series, which includes articles on attracting beneficial insects, controlling specific garden pests, and using organic pesticides.

Japanese Beetles (Popillia japonica)

Since first being found in New Jersey in 1916, Japanese beetles have become major garden pests in eastern North America. Appearing in early summer, the coppery beetles feed on leaves of roses, grapes, beans, hops, and more than 300 other plants, including lindens and several other landscape trees. Larvae feed in lawns and weaken the grass by destroying roots. 

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