Biology and Management of Asiatic Garden Beetle In Indiana Mint Production

Larvae of the Asiatic garden beetle (AGB) feed on the roots of a wide range of cultivated and wild plant species. In recent years, AGB larval infestations in commercial peppermint and spearmint fields in Indiana have caused significant reductions in vigor and plant stand, and even death of plants in 'hotspots' of infestation across mint fields (Figure 1). This extension bulletin provides guidance on how to identify adults and larvae of the Asiatic garden beetle, their life cycle in relation to the seasonal phenology of mint fields, and integrated pest management strategies to monitor and reduce populations of the larvae.