Getting Rid Of Japanese Beetles

Getting rid of Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica Newman, requires knowledge and persistence. There are a few methods of eradicating this beetle pest, and many eradication methods can be combined. It is important to realize that there are no quick fixes for getting rid of this pest. The Japanese beetle was first discovered in New Jersey in 1916, and by 1972 was found in twenty-two other states. 

Things you’ll need to rid of Japanese beetles:

• Traps for beetles
• Chemical controls
• Biological controls
• Integrated pest management information 

1. Survey for beetles. In order to implement the best strategy for eliminating Japanese beetles, it is important to survey your property to see what kind of problem you’re dealing with. One of the best methods for surveying a property is to set out traps for the beetles. This will give you an idea of how many beetles are in a given area. Also, if your lawn appears to have grub damage, survey this area also. 
2. Chemicals controls. If you decide to use chemicals to control the beetles, assess the risks and benefits of controlling the organism with pesticides. The correct timing of use of the pesticide along with correct application are probably the two most important aspects of using this eradication method. It is also very important to use the pesticides correctly to minimize debilitating environmental and ecosystem effects. Each state has its own handbook that is updated yearly for pest management. A common pesticide for adults is malathion and for larvae, you can use bendiocarb. Contact your local university extension or the United States Department of Agriculture for information on pesticides in eradicating the Japanese beetle.
3. Biological controls. Biological controls are living organisms that can aid in getting rid of Japanese beetles. Some of the controls are commercially available for getting rid of Japanese beetles while others are not. While they take a bit longer than chemicals to eradicate beetles, they last longer in the environment and do not affect non-target species in the ecosystem. Insect-eating nematodes work at the grub stage in the soil. Parasites such as tiphia vernalis and istocheta aldrichi that prey on adult beetles have also been proven to be effective controls. 
4. Habitat control. Habitat control involves manipulating the environment to make it less Japanese beetle friendly. By planting pest resistant species of plants and plants that are not preferred by the beetles, you can often successfully manage and control the invasion of this invasive pest. 
5. Integrated pest management. This all purpose method of controlling pests and invasive species involves chemical, biological and cultural strategies. The program works best if a person is willing to monitor the larval and adult stages of the organism, work with surrounding neighbors in monitoring the organism, and also partner with local agricultural or horticultural organizations for help.