Plants, trees, and shrubs that repel Japanese beetles.

Lily of the valley, less favored by Japanese beetles, next to a more vulnerable apple tree, in Cantley, QC.

Here is a list of the main plants that have the property of displeasing Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) or even acting as a repellent. This list is not exhaustive, but it presents several common plants that can be chosen to create gardens more resilient to these pests. Moreover, if you believe that other plants should appear on this list, please do not hesitate to let us know in the comments. And if you are battling these pests, I invite you to read our article on the subject: Japanese beetles are damaging your trees. What should you do?

Without further ado, here is the list of plants, trees, and shrubs that repel Japanese beetles. These species can be considered more resistant to Japanese beetle attacks, making them good choices for gardens where these insects are a problem:

• Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) - Sugar maple leaves are not a preferred target for Japanese beetles.

• Allium spp. (Onion) - Onions produce a strong odor that can deter Japanese beetles.

• Allium sativum (Garlic) - Like onions, garlic emits an odor that can repel Japanese beetles.

• Artemisia spp. (Wormwood) - Certain varieties of wormwood, like absinthe, can have a repellent effect on Japanese beetles.

• Buxus spp. (Boxwood) - Boxwoods may be less affected by Japanese beetles compared to other plants.

• Chrysanthemum spp. (Chrysanthemum) - Certain varieties of chrysanthemums produce aromatic compounds that can repel Japanese beetles.

• Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley) - Lily of the valley is sometimes consumed by Japanese beetles if they do not find other more attractive plants.

• Laurus spp. (Laurel) - Laurel leaves are generally not preferred by Japanese beetles.

• Lavandula spp. (Lavender) - Lavender emits a fragrance that Japanese beetles may find unpleasant, encouraging them to avoid lavender-planted areas.

• Mentha spp. (Mint) - The strong scent of mint can deter Japanese beetles from feeding on surrounding plants.

• Nepeta spp. (Catnip) - Catnip, also known as catmint, is sometimes effective in repelling Japanese beetles.

• Pelargonium spp. (Geranium) - Geraniums are sometimes considered to have repellent properties against Japanese beetles.

• Picea spp. (Spruce) - Conifers like spruces are not often attacked by Japanese beetles.

• Pinus spp. (Pine) - Pine species are not commonly affected by Japanese beetles.

• Quercus spp. (Oak) - Oak leaves are generally not preferred by Japanese beetles.

• Rhododendron spp. (Rhododendron) - Rhododendrons tend to be less attractive to Japanese beetles.

• Tagetes spp. (Marigold) - Marigolds, like calendulas, are known for their ability to repel Japanese beetles due to their strong odor.

Furthermore, here is a list of plants that attract Japanese beetles.

If you believe that another topic deserves a place on our blog, please do not hesitate to let us know in the comments.

Vincent Gendron Rossignol

Propriétaire et Consultant

Arboriste certifié ISA et TRAQ (QU-0474A)