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We have quite a large number of Lilies and are plagued by lily beetle. We’ve tried picking them off but it’s impossible to keep up with them all and they seem to overwinter in the soil. We’ve tried grazers and pro anti spray but with limited success. We’ve reached the pointed of giving up and removing the plants but don’t want to. Is there anything else we can do?
Thank you for your message — we really feel for you. Dealing with lily beetles, especially in a large collection, can be incredibly frustrating. You’re not alone — many gardeners are facing the same battle right now, particularly after the mild winters which have helped these pests survive in greater numbers.
We completely understand why you’re feeling disheartened, but don’t give up just yet — there are still a few things you can try that may improve the situation:
1. Neem Oil Treatment:
If you haven’t already, we highly recommend trying Neem Oil. It’s an organic solution that acts as both a deterrent and an insect growth regulator, disrupting the beetles’ lifecycle. It’s safe to use even when your lilies are in bloom and can help reduce the population over time.
2. Early Season Prevention:
Next season, start applying a prevention spray (such as Grazers or a garlic-based spray) as soon as the lily shoots emerge. This is key — once the foliage absorbs the treatment early on, it can make the leaves taste bitter and discourage beetles from feeding or laying eggs.
3. Improve Winter Hygiene:
After flowering, make sure to clear away all old foliage and any mulch or soil where beetles could overwinter. You might also try lifting and inspecting the bulbs in autumn if the infestation has been especially severe.
4. Companion Planting:
Some gardeners find that planting strongly scented herbs or companion plants (such as garlic or mint) nearby can help mask the scent of the lilies and deter beetles.
5. Encourage Natural Predators:
Birds such as starlings, blackbirds and robins will feed on lily beetles and their larvae. Creating a bird-friendly environment can offer some natural control.
We know you’ve worked hard on your lilies, and it would be such a shame to lose them. With a more aggressive multi-step approach next season, it’s very possible to turn things around.
The Hart Family
