Look out for the blue mint beetle (From Evesham Journal)

Look out for the blue mint beetle

11:00am Wednesday 5th September 2012 in Evesham

THE Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is calling on gardeners to watch out for the latest pest to appear in the UK.

The blue mint beetle was confirmed to be breeding in the country by the charity’s entomology department when specimens were sent to the group from Kent.

But as there has only been one reported finding, the society is keen to find out if this is an isolated situation or if the insect has become more widespread. By having more information the RHS will be in a better position to advise gardeners on measures to take.

“The beetle is widespread on mainland Europe and the detection of breeding adults in the UK could mean problems for gardeners who grow this herb,” said Andrew Halstead, principal scientist plant health at the RHS.

“It is therefore important that we find out if there are any other breeding adults elsewhere in the UK. The adults and the black, soft-bodied larvae both eat the foliage.”

If blue beetles are discovered, the charity would like either digital photographs taken and sent to advisory_entomology@rhs.org.uk or live samples posted in stout containers to Advisory Service, RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB.