Landscape Architect Articles

Japanese Beetles Invade Colorado Nurseries08-21-13 | News

Japanese Beetles Invade Colorado Nurseries

Increasing numbers of Japanese beetles have been found in specific geographic areas along the Front Range in Colorado. While this pest may not have as direct an impact on each industry segment as some of the others, GreenCO has long held the position that what impacts one has an impact on everyone in some way. Take appropriate action to eradicate the pest if found and report to the CDA if a large number are found.

Japanese Beetle is an invasive species. Precautions need to be taken to keep this pest from spreading to non -infested areas of Colorado. For commercial nurseries and garden centers JB is analogous with an A list noxious weed.

There is zero tolerance for this pest as it has high economic consequences for nurseries who export stock to western states. For nurseries and garden centers known to have these beetles present, eradication is warranted with chemicals and biological control is discouraged.

For homeowners, landscape managers and Colorado agriculture producers this pest is also devastating. Damage done to ornamentals, grasses and fruit crops in the Rocky Mountain State can be significant. Control is highly warranted, with eradication encouraged. Chemical controls are certainly recommended, but other integrated solutions may be employed as well.

Over the past three years Colorado Department of Agriculture has focused its JB prevention efforts on external quarantine and monitoring nursery stock imported into the state from the mid- west and eastern U.S. sources. While mostly successful, it is becoming apparent that CDA must now expand its focus on potential movement of this insect from the Denver metro area to other un-infested areas of the state.

For nurseries and garden centers the following is highly encouraged. Pest freedom is mandated when plants are sold.

Monitor plants and look for JB adults and feeding damage-adults are active Mid-June through mid-September. Larvae are in the soil feeding on roots. Put a trap up (CDA will assist). Have knowledgeable staff watch trucks being unloaded, regardless of origin. Contact CDA immediately if JB adults or larvae are noticed on plants being unloaded. Know the hosts of Japanese Beetles.