Small Bugs on My Basil Plant

Considerations

• Basil is a tender perennial performing well as an annual in most climates. It prefers rich, well-drained soil and requires bright sunlight and warmth. While few insects bother basil plants, grasshoppers and slugs occasionally feed on its leaves and roots. The most common type of bug that lives on and around basil plants is the Japanese beetle. Left untreated, these pests can cause irreparable damage to the entire plant.

Characteristics

• Japanese beetles are a common pest in lawns, trees and gardens across the United States, especially in the Eastern part of the country. The adult beetles are 7/16 inch long and have metallic-green bodies with copper-colored wings. They normally appear on host plants, including basil, during June. Their lifespan is about 30 to 45 days. These beetles chew on the tissue between the veins on the leaves, leaving behind skeletonized foliage. The adults lay their eggs in the soil near the host plants. The grubs hatch in the late fall and survive the winter under the soil. Although the grubs remain unseen, they feed on the underground roots.

Treatment

• Insecticides that contain pyrethroid ingredients, such as cyfluthrin, bifenthrin, permethrin or esfenvalerte, are effective in killing these beetles, as well as other beetles that may attack basil plants. Spraying the exposed beetles kills the existing pests. Treating the soil during the grub stage is the best way to remove Japanese beetles before emerging from the ground. Soil drenches soak through the soil and kill the developing insects. Springtime is the best time to apply the soil drench.

Prevention

• A healthy basil plant is best equipped to fight off damage from pest infestations. Providing bright sunlight, well-drained soil and adequate moisture help ensures a strong plant. Basil plants require about 1 inch of water each week. Draping a lightweight piece of fabric over the plants when you notice beetle infestations on nearby trees helps keep the beetles from landing on basil plants and laying their eggs under the foliage of this herb.