Japanese beetle a growing problem for Hampton trees

By: 
Travis Fischer

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     A pesky pest is becoming a bigger problem for Hampton's trees.
     Popillia Japonica, or the Japanese beetle, is a shiny green insect that has been gradually making its way across the country over the last century. Arriving in the Midwest about a decade ago, the beetle is now likely a permanent fixture in the area, which is bad news for the trees it infests.
     "They've been around for a while," said Gary Stenzel, owner of Yard Guide, a service that takes care of trees and plants. "They're really voracious little eaters."
     Feeding off the soft portion leaves, leaving skeleton like remains, an infestation of beetles can cause serious damage to a growing tree. Particularly if they come back for seconds after a tree blooms again in the same season. Trees are built to withstand a fair amount of defoliation, but getting hit multiple times can severely impact its ability to photosynthesize.
     Read the full article in the August 10 edition of the Hampton Chronicle.

Hampton Chronicle

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Hampton, IA 50441
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