Question
I have an infestation of black shiny small beetles approx 3m x 2mm on my ornamental cherry tree the leaves are pocked with holes what can I do organically. Will they infest other plants, they do not seem to do much damage to the roses under the tree though they do fall on the flowers.

Answer
Jane,

There are so many beetles that would fit this description that it is impossible for me to give you an accurate id. However, often with leaf-feeding insects a simple spray of water from a garden hose is enough to dislodge them. If an insecticide is necessary a good choice would be one containing spinosad (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/spinosad.html for info) if it is available in Australia. Another choice might be neem oil (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/neem_oil.html for info) since it has excellent anti-feeding properties. My guess is you'll be able to find either of these at your local lawn and garden store.

Jack DeAngelis