Is Milky Spore Powder Effective Against Japanese Beetles?

Milky spore is a natural biological control agent that targets Japanese beetle grubs, specifically infecting and killing their larvae. This bacterium, Paenibacillus popilliae, has been used for Japanese beetle control since the 1940s. When Japanese beetle larvae ingest the spores of this bacterium, they get a disease that is specific to Japanese beetles and won’t harm humans, other animals, or plants. It is safe to use on lawn and ornamental plants as well as vegetable gardens without risk of contamination.

Milky spore works best in areas with high concentrations of Japanese beetles and their offspring. However, it is important to note that milky spore was manufactured to control only Japanese beetle grubs, and there are many more turf-damaging products available. Milky spore kills grubs within approximately 3 weeks and continues to propagate while Japanese beetle grubs are active.

Milky spore is not effective against other species of beetles, as they will hatch in neighboring yards and then fly to your yard and eat your flowers. To effectively control Japanese beetle grubs, it is essential to confirm that the beetles are Japanese beetle grubs before using this product. Additionally, it is important to note that milky spore does not work effectively against other species of beetles, as they will continue to feed on your plants and grass roots.