I have also been watching out for Japanese Beetles. So far I haven't seen any yet. Blister Bugs are a bit of an annoyance, though. I have a special pair of forceps that I use to grab blister bugs without being affected by their chemical irritant.

Let us know if the cedar oil spray actually works to repel JBs. Cedar has a strong smell. So far I have just relied on hand-picking Japanese Beetles, although that can get to be a bit tedious. During the peak of their season I can hand pick as many as two dozen per day and some damage gets done inevitably anyway.

Apparently JBs really like my zinnias. I hope I remember to spare the JBs that have the little white parasite eggs attached to them.

MM

So far this year, I've had Tourtise Beetles on the tomatoes, a first. And I have Cucumber Beetles, also a first. The Colorado Potato Beetles are back, but few in number. "Fool's Gold Beetles" are eating holes in the Morning Glory's. It's just been one bug issue after another. Fortunately, all have been at manageable levels....so far.

I suspect the early snow-cover, and lack of frost in the ground protected many of the critters. I had a terrible grub issue this spring, worse than ever. That also appears to have been resolved. We'll see I guess.

Marc

Wayne

Milky Spore has been reported to have "spotty results" in the New England area, although it has "has been effective in some coastal locations".

Unfortunately, however, "Milky Spore, which is often sold as a remedy for grubs, is not effective in Maine’s colder climate."

Since we aren't in a coastal location, I think I won't spend money on Milky Spore.

MM

Saw my first two JBs yesterday, killed them both. They will probably come out in full force soon as this rainy weather leaves and we have some hot sunny days.

MM