homestead how-to

How to Defeat Japanese Beetles in Your Garden

01

Handpicking

If small numbers of Japanese beetles are present, the quickest and most effective way to remove them is by picking each one off by hand

02

Neem Oil

Neem oil kills adult Japanese beetles, their larvae, and eggs.

03

Garlic Spray

Neem oil kills adult Japanese beetles, their larvae, and eggs.

04

Companion Planting

Some plant species, such as garlic, chives, catnip, rue, larkspur, and tansy, can repel Japanese beetles.

05

Attract Natural Predators

Plant nectar-rich flowers to encourage beneficial insects like tachinid flies and parasitic wasps, which prey on Japanese beetles.

06

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap only works on contact and has no residual activity, so it must be sprayed directly onto every Japanese beetle you spot.

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