Dep82
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Insect probelm on my shrubs? PICTURES INCLUDED

I saw this a while a go and let it go thinking it would come back. It looks like it got worse (from my window) so I got a closer look at it and saw all the damage... it's over all the shrubs in the area. I'm thinking its bugs? Any ideas or how to remedy the problem?
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rainbowgardener
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Your shrub is a viburnum. It could be flea beetle damage. But viburnums also have their own pest, the viburnum leaf beetle:

larva:
Image

https://bugguide.net/images/cache/XKA/K5 ... KK2K8Q.jpg

adult:

Image
https://bugguide.net/images/cache/ARF/KW ... FR0Q9R.jpg

I would do a thorough search and see if you can find your pest. It helps to know what you are dealing with. If you don't find them in the daytime, come back in the evening.

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GardeningCook
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Dep82 - Where are you located?

Dep82
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GardeningCook wrote:Dep82 - Where are you located?
Michigan.

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rainbowgardener
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So have you done a thorough check to see if you can spot your pest?

Dep82
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rainbowgardener wrote:So have you done a thorough check to see if you can spot your pest?
Found them I think! Any idea?
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GardeningCook
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Those definitely look like Vibernum Leaf Beetles. Here's some info on control:

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/control-vi ... 26139.html

There's more info online - just do a search on "controlling Vibernum Leaf Beetles".

Dep82
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GardeningCook wrote:Those definitely look like Vibernum Leaf Beetles. Here's some info on control:

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/control-vi ... 26139.html

There's more info online - just do a search on "controlling Vibernum Leaf Beetles".
I appreciate your help.... I have some bug b gone but don't want to rid my yard of non threatening insects.

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GardeningCook
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You may want to try some hand-picking/killing of the mature beetles (a gross pain in the a**, I know), &/or try some Safer brand insecticidal soap (available at most big box stores, nurseries, hardware stores, etc.).

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rainbowgardener
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I don't think insecticidal soap works very well on hard shelled beetles. They are leaf eaters, so Neem oil sprayed on the leaves should control them and it is harmless to anything that doesn't eat leaves.

For hand picking, if you come out in the early AM while it is still cool, they are slowed down. You should be able to shake the branches and they will drop down off it. Catch them in a bowl of soapy water and they will drown (eventually - they will swim around for awhile first :shock: )

That's quite an infestation. You do want to do something about it.

Best Wishes



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