Safe Insecticide For Beetles That Are Eating Lilies

Question From: j. Drew - Massachusetts, United States
Q: do you have any recommendations for the beetles that eat my lilies? im in zone 5 and they havent bloomed yet. there 1/4 inch long, slim and red. i like to keep all pesticides away from my gardens and lawns unless non harmful to other beneficial insects and flyers

A: A product called Surround made of Kaolin Clay would work. The downside is it leaves a white dusty covering on the plants. AzaMax, used according to package directions is also an option. Active ingredient is Azadiractin from the Neem Tree. Just use at sundown when beneficials have left the garden. It is an anti-feedant not a contact poison. Since beneficials don't eat plants, it's safe. I would not use it on milkweeds however. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy