Japanese Beetles

**N* S* <s*@earthlink.net>**

Japanese beetles are out in full force in my garden. But this year I  
think I have them on the run and the pesticide that works is , AzaMax  
from General Horticulture. It's OMRI listed, environmentally friendly  
when used according to the directions and can be used the day of  
harvest  The active ingredient is Azadirachtin from the Neem tree.   
One of the secrets to success is to acidify the water before mixing.  
My water registeres a pH of 8. One teaspoon of household vinegar  
brings it down to 6.5. To work best the water should register 5.5 to  
6.5. I've used hot tub strips to check the pH of my water although I  
have had it professionally tested.  I sprayed three times - five to 7  
days apart. Before spraying I was harvesting more than a  hundred  
beetles a day. This a.m I harvested a dozen. Shrub roses popping out  
fresh flowers daily were the target. But still a dozen beetles -  that  
I can handle.  Best to spray in the early AM or PM so as not to hit  
any beneficials. This is not a take down pesticide - it works as a  
repellant, an anti growth regulator and an antifeedant. According to  
the directions three apps in 30 days gives complete protection.  
Because of heavy pressure I cut the time down. It's recommended in the  
directions:-)

Nancy Szerlag
Columnist for Detroit News
szerlag@earthlink.net

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