Japanese beetles are out and feeding. I saw a large population on the raspberries at the Meigs Farm on Monday. Although this pest isn’t as severe as it was a number of years ago, it can still cause plenty of problems. Small fruit growers should monitor their crops and control the beetles if necessary. Japanese beetle feeding can stunt young fruit trees that are not yet in production (and not receiving regular insecticide treatments). Fortunately, Japanese beetles are fairly easy to manage. Sevin or any of the pyrethroid insecticides will provide good control. Organic growers can spray neem, which acts as a repellent. Several applications may be required.