Roses That Are Hardy Against Japanese Beetles

William Baffin Explorer Roses

• The William Baffin Explorer rose is known for being resistant to Japanese beetles. This rose is also disease resistant and hardy to cold temperatures. This rose does well even in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zone 3. It has large strawberry-pink blooms that are lightly fragrant. Japanese beetles do not seem attracted to it.

Canadian Bred Champlain Roses

• The Canadian Bred Champlain rose is also especially hardy against Japanese beetles. It also thrives well in cold temperatures and extremely hot and humid summers. It has been known to tolerate temperatures as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit. This rose blooms from early summer to late fall.

Meidiland Roses

• This shrub rose is somewhat resistant to Japanese beetles. It is disease resistant and tolerant of both cold and hot temperatures. Meidiland roses can grow from 1 to 5 feet tall. These low-maintenance roses are effective as hedges.

Japanese Beetle Life Cycle

• The Japanese beetle was discovered in North America in 1916. This beetle lays eggs that later develop into grubs about an inch long. The grubs are curled in shape and have yellowish-brown heads. When the grubs grow into adult beetles, they have a greenish cast with shiny copper-colored wings. These beetles cause extensive damage to a variety of trees, shrubs, flowers and crops every year. Roses are among the Japanese beetle's favorite plants on which they consume both petals and leaves.

Controlling Japanese Beetles

• At the first sign of Japanese beetles on roses, it is very important to treat this problem quickly. Use liquid sprays or dust pesticides to prevent further damage by Japanese beetles. Apply these chemicals in the morning before the heat of the day has set in. Be sure to spray both lower and upper surfaces of the rose. If possible, avoid the use of Japanese beetle traps. These tend to lure in a large number of beetles, which can enhance the problem. For small beetle infestations, handpicking is the best form of control.