House & Patio

How To Take Care Of Japanese Beetles On Trees And Rose Bushes

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If you're like me, you'll wander out to your newly planted Elm tree or rose bush one morning and see some eaten leaves. 

You most likely have some japanese beetles visiting. These beetles came to the US via Japan in the early 1910s. They quickly spread throughout the US.

You will see them from mid-May through early July. And they typically only last a few weeks.

However, they can really do a number on your plants during that time. So, you have to be ready for them.

The following tools can really help you prevent Japanese Beetles from devouring the leaves on your bushes and trees. 

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  1. Spectracide HG-76095 Beetle Killer

    Spectracide HG-76095 Beetle Killer

    If you have Beetles on your bush or tree NOW, order this ASAP. This solution should be your last resort, but it works for killing the beetles on contact and preventing damage now.

    The other solutions down the list take time to work. You apply them early in spring....the get soaked up by the roots...and all of the leaves on your plants start not tasting as good to the beetles.

    This spray is not that. It kills them today on contact and then leaves behind a protective residue. 

    I try to avoid using it as it is not the best for the environment or things like bees. But, you sometimes just need to keep your trees and bushes alive. 

  2. Bio Advanced Tree & Bush Protection

    Bio Advanced Tree & Bush Protection

    The best solution for keeping your plants free from beetles is to treat them with this protector. Simply spread a circle of this mixture around the base of the bush/tree and it will be soaked up by the roots.

    This will provide 12 month protection against all sorts of insects and animals. I highly recommend this product in combination with the Scotts product below.

  3. Scotts GrubEx1

    Scotts GrubEx1

    One of the best things you can do in mid-spring is spread a grub killer on your lawn.

    This will take care of any nesting Japanese beetles before they come to your garden. It will also prevent them from eating lawn roots. 

    This solution takes time to work but is a great preventative control.

  4. Spectracide Bag Trap

    Spectracide Bag Trap

    I'm not a fan of the beetle bag traps, but some people swear by them. These bag contain a sweet-smelling liquid that draws in the beetles. They will then get trapped in the bag and not be able to eat your plants.

    The issue with these bags is that they are a bit too good at attracting beetles. I think they draw more beetles to your yard than you originally had. 

    Use these bags with care, and place them far away from the rose bushes & trees you wish to protect if you do use them.


Tyler loves the challenge of finding the right trees for any piece of land.