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impact of the newish red lily beetle #877094

Asked July 13, 2024, 1:45 PM EDT

This is the 2nd summer that I have been aware of the beetle being very aggressive on my lilies. Last year I learned how to rreduce the population by removing and putting the beetles in soapy water. Some weeks I get out there 2 times others less frequently. I wish i knew what part of the days the beetles are most active on the lilies. But more importantly I want to know, if the plant leaves are really impacted, about 3/4 to the whole leaf is eaten, is it smart to pull the plant out of the garden? Is there a website you can recomend to learn more about how to deal with this new beetle?

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hello Jenny, 

Thanks for reaching out! Sorry to hear about your lily beetles. Here is a helpful Wisconsin Extension article with more information about the beetles and options for control: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/lily-leaf-beetle/

Soapy water, as you've done in the past, is a great method of control. As the article states, if the problem becomes too severe (which it sounds like it may have), you may wish to pull out your lilies and replace them with other plants. The article also lists a few options for conventional and organic insecticides. If you do use insecticides, make sure to follow the label directions attached to the container you are using. The label is the law. Also be aware that insecticides can pose risks to bees and other pollinators. 

I hope this information is helpful. Good luck! 

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 13, 2024, 3:52 PM EDT

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