Woodbury residents are reporting infestations of the Japanese beetle in their neighborhoods. While Japanese beetles do cause significant damage to foliage, in most cases they do not kill plants or trees. If damage is extensive, insecticides may be needed to control grubs and adults.
While Japanese beetle "traps" can be used to help control the insect, the University of Minnesota Extension Services cautions residents to think twice before purchasing and installing one. The traps contain a powerful scent that lures in beetles from a few thousand feet. Research demonstrated that more beetles fly toward traps than are caught, resulting in surplus beetles that feed on your plants.
The Japanese beetle was first found in the United States in 1916 in southern New Jersey. Unfortunately, without any natural enemies in the U.S., the beetle continues to spread and has become a serious plant pest.