Getting rid of beetles at night can be a bit challenging, but there are several effective strategies you can try. Here are some methods that I recommend:
1. Trap them: Japanese beetles are attracted to pheromones, so using a trap can be an effective way to catch them. Place a commercially available Japanese beetle trap in your garden, preferably away from your plants. The trap will emit a scent that attracts the beetles, causing them to fly towards it and get caught. Empty the trap regularly to prevent it from becoming too full.
2. Use insecticides: If the infestation is severe and other methods haven’t worked, you may consider using an insecticide. Look for a product specifically designed to target Japanese beetles and follow the instructions carefully. Apply the insecticide in the evening when the beetles are most active and avoid spraying it on flowering plants to minimize harm to beneficial insects like bees. Be sure to wear protective clothing and gloves while handling and applying the insecticide.
3. Hand-pick the beetles: While this method may be time-consuming, it can be effective, especially for smaller gardens. Go out at night with a flashlight and a bucket of soapy water. Shine the light on the plants, and the beetles will become sluggish due to the cooler temperature. Simply pick them off the plants and drop them into the soapy water, which will kill them. Repeat this process regularly to keep the population in check.
4. Natural predators: Encourage natural predators of Japanese beetles, such as birds, to visit your garden. You can attract birds by providing birdhouses, feeders, and birdbaths. Additionally, some beneficial insects like ground beetles and parasitic wasps feed on Japanese beetle larvae in the soil. Creating a diverse and balanced ecosystem in your garden can help control the beetle population naturally.
5. Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against Japanese beetles. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it on the affected plants in the evening. Neem oil works by disrupting the beetles’ feeding and reproductive cycles, ultimately reducing their population.
Remember, it’s important to be patient and persistent when dealing with Japanese beetles. Combining multiple methods and regularly monitoring your garden will help you achieve the best results.
