Summer Landscape News
"EVEN IF I KNEW THAT TOMORROW THE WORLD WOULD GO TO PIECES, I WOULD STILL PLANT MY APPLE TREE."
~ MARTIN LUTHER KING
Management of Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are on the rise this summer. The adult pests target flowers, leaves, and fruits throughout Denver. There are a few ways to control Japanese beetles but no way to completely eradicate them.

The most common way to control Japanese beetles is to use pesticides. As we all know using pesticides is the least desirable way to get ride of these pests due to the affect it has on pollinators. For areas that have blooming flowers, Autumn Tree, Lawn & Landscape offers horticulture oil or a bee safe product called Aslepryn insecticide which is recommended for areas with bee activity. This year more than two sprays throughout the summer is needed.

Another way to manage Japanese beetles is to pick them off by hand and toss them in soapy water. Paul V. Switzer & Ryan M. Cummings from the Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Illinois University conducted a study on small scale removing Japanese beetles by hand and what time of day was most effective. The study was done three times a day; 8:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 7:00 pm. They concluded that there are many variables. Morning time is a good time since the adults were more sluggish and less likely to fly away. Afternoon is a good time due to their increased fly time and recolonization pattern. Evening removal helped decrease settlers. Overall hand picking Japanese beetles is effective. To read more about this study visit: Effectiveness of hand removal for small-scale management of Japanese beetles

Another study written by Dr. Whitney Cranshaw from Colorado State University introduced a biological control program in Colorado. This study introduced bacterium (milky spore), Tachinid fly, Parasitic wasps, & Microsporidium (fungus.) These controls were released in areas of Denver, Boulder, & Pueblo. The areas are currently being monitored and show signs of organism increase and Japanese beetle decrease. To read more on this study visit: Japanese beetle biological control program

In conclusion we can't completely kill Japanese beetles over night. We can do our part by paying close attention to our plants. If you notice these destructive pests we urge you to talk with your neighbors about a program that best suits your community. Pick off what you can and call Autumn Tree, Lawn & Landscape to manage them further.
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Outdoor water use reminder
Colorado is experiencing the lowest drought conditions in nearly two decades. Though we've had a lot of moisture this year it is important that we use our water efficiently. Home landscapes are often a household’s largest water consumer. But by making sure your sprinkler system is running efficiently, and only giving your lawn what it needs, you can have a healthy landscape while cutting down on your water consumption. Take the time to learn about your sprinkler system, lawn, trees, shrubs and water usage to irrigate efficiently. Denver Water introduced a new water efficiency plan, which provides a five-year plan to help customers understand not only how much water they use, but also how they can meet their own water needs in the most efficient ways. 

  • Water during cooler times of the day - lawn watering is NOT allowed between 10 a.m. & 6 p.m.
  • Water no more than three days per week.
  • Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets, and alleys.
  • Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt. Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
  • Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
  • Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car. 

Remember , there are no assigned watering days, but never water more than three days a week. Customers are subject to annual watering rules. 

Report water waste, If you see water waste that does not meet these rules, call Denver Water at 303-893-2444 or report it online at denverwater.org

For lawn water times visit : Denver Water
Tree of the Month
American Elm
Elms are loved for their beauty, fountain like branches, and color changing leaves. Unfortunately, the American Elm can no longer be recommended because of it's vulnerability to Dutch Elm disease. However, other species and hybrids that are more resistant to the disease are available for planting. The lesson learned from the devastation of Dutch Elm disease is the importance of having a variety of trees. Our aborists & foresters are careful to plant a diverse range of trees that will not all be vulnerable to any particular disease, pest, or weather conditions.
Citation
Switzer, Paul V. and Cumming, Ryan M., "Effectiveness of hand removal for small-scale management of Japanese beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)" (2014). Faculty Research & Creative Activity. 269.