Japanese Beetles

Happy July!

This month we received a great question! “In my hedge, I have been dealing with an infestation of beetles that eat the leaves leaving them dead and brown in colour.”

If you’ve ever encountered Japanese beetles, you know just how pesky they can be. But fear not, there are ways to keep their population under control and protect your plants from damage. I’ve had years with a severe infestation on my grapevines and other years with none at all, so prevention is key to keeping these beetles at bay.

Identifying Japanese beetles is the first step. You’ll find these pests active during sunny days, often in groups. Keep an eye out for patches of dead grass, as this may indicate the presence of their subsurface-dwelling grubs. Preventing a Japanese beetle infestation is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn and garden. To discourage grub activity and prevent dead patches of grass, consider raking or aerating your lawn. Trimming back overhanging trees can also help by promoting proper water retention and limiting shaded areas where beetles can hide and lay eggs.

Maintaining a moderate grass height and ensuring proper fertilization are additional measures to strengthen your lawn against minor pest activity. If you find yourself facing an infestation, don’t worry. Try venturing into your garden in the evening, just before sunset, with a pail of water. Gently shake the beetles into the water, where they’ll meet their end. It’s best to act quickly, as leaving them be will result in egg-laying and further damage to your grass. By employing these friendly tactics, you can take proactive steps to keep Japanese beetles under control and protect your cherished plants and lawn from their destructive ways.

If you have any gardening questions, send them to me at [email protected] with the subject line”Ask Anna,” and I’ll answer them in next month’s Seeker NewsMagazine.

Stop by Harvest on the at 2405 Vincent Massey Drive and also at 75 Cornwall Centre Road to pick up your copy of The Seeker each month.