LILY BEETLE

LILY beetle is one of the most troublesome summer pests. As well as feeding on lilies, it often attacks fritillaries, too.

If you grow lilies, it’s important to check the foliage every day or two. The adult beetles are bright red and ladybirdsized, but oblong and with no spots. If you’re stealthy, you can catch the adults and crush them. But creep up on them because, when threatened, a beetle drops off the leaf and scuttles away. The slow-moving larvae are easier to deal with. You’ll find those covered with their own black excrement. Wear gloves to pick them off and squash them.