In most home landscapes, using one or more traps may do more harm than good. The beetles are attracted into the area, many of which do not make it to traps. Traps are more useful to monitor beetle emergence than as control devices. Planting less susceptible plants, such as boxwood, silver maple, dogwood, holly, magnolia oaks, lilac, may be an alternative. Contact your local county Extension agent for the latest information regarding pesticides for Japanese beetle control.
Somebody is sure to ask about milky spore products for Japanese beetle control.
Spores of this bacterium are produced commercially, but are not distributed in the Southeast. Milky spore is only effective on Japanese beetle grubs, and only then where there are high grub populations. Use pesticides only according to the directions on the label. Follow all directions, precautions, and restrictions that are listed. Do not use pesticides on plants that are not listed on the label.