[baker44]

I planted a new tree in the spring and the japanese beetles have gotten to it. The leaves are all damaged. Is there any way to save this tree? Can I totally remove the leaves and will that give it new life? Should I fertilize it?

[twinkiedooter]

Don't remove any leaves! The tree will come back to life next season for sure. I had one of my birch trees attacked by beetles last summer and had only a handful of leaves left on the tree. It was approx 2 years old. This year the tree came back better than ever. Would suggest keeping it watered - but don't drown it. As far as fertilizer - I didn't fertilize mine, but if you feel it's necessary to do this go to a garden nursery and ask them for a very weak tree fertilizer and use sparingly. If the beetles are all gone and your tree is still alive it should be okay. If the beetles are still attacking the tree I saw a beetle catcher on TV that I was going to buy if the beetles came back to my yard this year. Don't know the cost but it looks like it traps the beetles and probably has pheromones where the yellow strip at the top of the catch bag is that entices the beetles into the catchbag.

[wallabee4]

Advice on the tree is good.

The beetle bags are great--if your neighbor has one... if YOU have one, all it does is bring more beetles to your yard. You'll want to spread milky spore onto your lawn to kill the beetles in the grub stage and then gift a beetle bag catcher to your neighbors ;)