Hi Nancy,

Thank you for reaching out to the helpline. Japanese Beetles are a common garden pest and can be frustrating to manage. The UVM Master Gardener Extension program is here to provide science based information, recommendations and research. Unfortunately, we are not permitted to give home remedies or "old time recipes" as they can be subjective and experimental.

However, here are a few things you could try:

1. Row Covers or Fine Netting: A physical barrier can help protect crops from beetles. Do not to use during bloom or you could prevent pollination, but once the fruit sets this can help keep out pests.

2. Trap Crops: Planting sacrificial crops such as rue or marigold nearby that are more attractive to Japanese beetles can lure them away from your raspberries. 

3. Companion Planting: Growing certain plants alongside your raspberries, such as thyme or strong-scented herbs, often repel Japanese beetles due to their strong aroma.

Here is a link to a great resource on controlling beetles and grubs:

Japanese Beetles in Yards

If you have questions regarding insecticides or other topical treatments I can refer you to our Plant Pathologist here at UVM. Hope this helps!