Demonstrating a decrease in feeding damage by Japanese beetles in Wisconsin grape vineyards with the use of Kaolin clay

The Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), an exotic, introduced scarab, has become the most widespread and destructive insect pest of turf, landscapes, and nursery crops in the eastern United States.  It also damages many fruit, garden, and field crops.  Research conducted in a 27 acre Wisconsin vineyard showed various rates of kaolin clay to be effective control for Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica (Newman), while showing no adverse effects on several important fruit characteristics used by grape growers. This study evaluates potential changes produced by the use of kaolin clay in sugar content, acidity, number of fruit produced per plant, and weight of the fruit.  Kaolin clay has been a useful tool in the green industry for many years.  It has been an option for insect control for tree nurseries and various crops such as cotton, blueberry, and roses.  The mechanisms of action of kaolin against insect pests include repellency, tactile or visual cue interference, impairment or disruption of oviposition, and feeding activity.