[Antonius]

Is there a tried a trusted method of getting rid of the red lily beetle? They really know how to spoil a good show of lillies and I'm being sent up the wall by these little critters!

[Salmo]

http://www.dgsgardening.btinternet.co.uk/lilybeetle_red.htm

This should tell you all you need to know.

[Bernard]

Just flatten them and their revolting babies.

I had a first infestation 3 years ago and squashed every one I found, also several batches of eggs.  Next year I watched carefully for them but no more turned up until this year, when I have found 3 so far but no grubs so I think I have caught them.

[Trillium]

Over here we can get sprays containing neem oil which is very effective against them. We also spray the soil around the lily plant to catch those hiding. A good way to find them is to place a white sheet or old towel around the plant, shake the plant and the little beasts will fall onto the cloth and are easily seen for squashing.

[Antonius]

Thank you very much for your replies....I do hope to rid myself of these horrible little creatures. Thanks again

[lisa80]

I used a spray this year i cant remember what its called but its a yellow bottle with bugs on it .It wasnt very expensive and lilly beetle was listed as one of the bugs it deals with and has worked so far

[sclarke624]

Hey I just bought one in Wilkinsons............Provado Ultimate Bug Killer.  £2.98 (£1 off or something like that) for 1 litre you can get concentrate as well I think same shelf.  Yellow bottle

[Maxine Groobey]

I have just found a red lily beetle! I have squashed it though, is there anything else I need to do?

[DavidT]

I have just found a red lily beetle! I have squashed it though, is there anything else I need to do?

I think it may be dead now, Maxine. Though you could try the kiss of life.

[stentman]

On nice days the beetles have a habit of sunbathing on the leaves between about 2pm and 4pm. Really they do. They seem slow to react mid late afternoon and are easier to squish. They seem hard to find at other times.  The grubs can be hosed of the underside of the leaves if you can find them, this might not kill them but it does give them a very long and arduous climb back to the food.

[sclarke624]

On nice days the beetles have a habit of sunbathing on the leaves between about 2pm and 4pm. Really they do. They seem slow to react mid late afternoon and are easier to squish. They seem hard to find at other times.  The grubs can be hosed of the underside of the leaves if you can find them, this might not kill them but it does give them a very long and arduous climb back to the food.

What time do they go for a tea break though.........I'll get me coat.