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Rose leaves getting eaten #413267

Asked July 10, 2017, 7:42 PM EDT

I think we might have a Japanese Beetle issue with our rose tree/bush? We moved into our home three months ago, and the roses are flourishing, but the leaves are eaten up and skeletal. Is there something we can put on the plant to kill off these beetles? I attached a picture to get your input on the situation. We don't want to pick all the beetles off - if that's the issue. We haven't actually seen any. What else could it be? Thanks!

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Japanese beetles can do a lot of damage in a short time. It is probably rose chafers or beetles. You should be able to see the beetles so I wonder if it is rose chafers. If you don't see any insects then they may have left already and spraying isn't necessary. You should keep watching closely to see if you can see and insect. Here is a link to info about the chafers and the Japanese beetles. It is important to understand the life cycle of the insect in order to deal with it so make sure that you read and understand how best to do that. It is also good to just pick off and destroy any that you do see. http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/annualperennial/roses/leavesholes.html
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 12, 2017, 11:56 AM EDT

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