Integrated Management of Adult Japanese Beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> , in Ornamental Plants

Abstract The Japanese beetle ( Popillia japonica ) is an invasive pest currently present throughout North America and parts of Europe. Adults, which feed on over 300 different species of plants, pose a significant threat to ornamentals and fruit crops. While chemical control options for adult beetles are available, many home gardeners wish to avoid the use of insecticides for human health and environmental health reasons. There are several non-chemical control methods that can be used for the Japanese beetle, many of which are highly suited to use in a home garden, but successful management of this pest will likely require a combination of approaches and an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan. This case study provides context to the problems Japanese beetles cause through a discussion of their invasion history, life cycle, and biology. We then describe non-chemical control methods for adults, specifically in the context of ornamental plants and home gardens. Information © The Authors 2025.