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Last updated 10:37 pm CT February 08, 2010.

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Greener Gardens - Milky Spore

There are some quick fixes to get rid of the adult Japanese Beetles in our gardens. Sprays are available, and knocking the beetles off plants and into a jar of soapy water will go a long way to reduce their numbers. But for a long term solution, we need to take a closer look at these bugs.

Margie Rehagan from Plantscape Nursery informs us, "We need to understand the life cycle of the Japanese Beetle. This is the adult form. They are feeding, they are mating right now, and laying eggs. And they lay eggs in your lawn, and they go the greenest parts of your lawn."

The beetles need moist areas to lay their eggs. This year's rain has kept most lawns green, therefore they could be laying their eggs anywhere, not just under plants. Once those eggs hatch, they develop into grubs.

Margie says, "Now the grub form then in the spring time will feed on turf, roots, feed on the roots of grass, and they can actually cause a real problem with your lawn."

The grubs pupate to form the adult beetle, and this cycle repeats season after season. So we need a way to stop the cycle.

Margie assures, "There is a control that's a biological control called Milky Spore, and its a bacteria. And it is a safe form that kills only the Japanese Beetle grub in the ground."

Milky Spore can be applied two ways, by a granular spreader mix, and by a powder form. In applying the granular form, you need to treat the border of your
property first, then complete the rest of the area with parallel passes. Walk at a steady pace. After you apply it, water it in.

Margie advises, "It is put on three times a year, in spring, summer, and fall for two years."

For the powder form, be frugal and measure out one exact level teaspoon, apply it on top of the grass, count out four feet, and repeat that process over your entire lawn.

Margie says, "As long as there are Japanese Beetle grubs in the ground, it will continue to spread, and it may last twenty years or more."

Nice to know there is a long lasting affect for all your effort.

Margie suggests, "Really, if entire communities could do this, if a lot of people could do this we could gain some control over Japanese Beetles."

For your Greener and more pest free gardens.

by Debra O'Neil

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