i used a systemic bayer product labeled for emerald ash borer ... until the trees got too big .. at which point i decided it would be cheaper to just get rid of the ash ...

i have no clue whether your product is labeled for said bug ... and said plant.. sorry.. i just dont have time to look it up ...

all that said.. have you considered switching plants???

its the old cost/benefit ratio ... are you willing to do it every year .. maybe forever ... if the bug is that ubiquitous ....

ken

I haven't tried imidacloprid for VLB, but the Bayer product label does list VLB as one of the pests it will control. Cornell has good info on managing VLB here " ... spinosad and insecticidal soap have effectively knocked back viburnum leaf beetle larvae with less damage to beneficial insects." Sprays are most effective if applied while the larvae are small.

I'd rather try to save them since they're about 15 yrs old.

Just be aware that a systemic like imidacloprid that lasts a year will kill pollinators such as bees that visit the flowers along with the VLB. I removed my Blue Muffin because it was such a mess, but grow a bunch of other Viburnums that are less vulnerable. I would look at the info at the green link that Dave provided from Cornell as to less toxic alternatives if you decide to keep them. I can get both spinosad and insecticidal soap locally.

NHBabs, Yes I'm aware. Currently looking into insecticidal soap, either commercial or homemade recipe. Thank you.