Beetles in the basil

I grow basil, and other herbs, every summer and the basil always does very well. But this year beetles got into it. They didn't touch the parsley which is in the same pot, or the other herbs in other posts, but they destroyed the basil.

My husband suggested I spray it with something but I don't want to do that. I think I have to just tear it out and plant again--it's really crummy. But how do I keep it from happening again without using pesticides ??

Wow, I can't think of what would specifically go after basil. What do these beetles look like (short floppy hair, guitars?). I'd definitely plant again in a separate pot with fresh soil.

Are you referring to Japanese beetles? I had a few on my basil last year and just kept picking them off. They don't seem to be around all summer so this worked for me, though I only had a few plants, so it wasn't a big deal. Also, I have some wild grape vines all over, and the beetles seemed to like those more than anything (well, except my poor rose bush), so maybe the damaged was lessened because of that. Otherwise, I've heard of pheromone traps but not sure if those actually work or just attract more beetles to your yard.

the phermone traps worked great for my roses a few years ago
got rid of most of them in a few weeks

If you are having trouble with Japanese Beetles, plant marigolds around your garden... or around the area where you have basil. Japanese Beetles are attracted to marigolds and will usually go there first...
Also the simple bag traps that have a natural scent hung in the area may help too... I am not sure about these, but I do here that they have them without chemicals.

I hear you about spraying! I would not spray my basil either. It just doesn't sit right with me...

Good luck! :pawprint: