The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is an invasive pest that causes damage to gardens, landscape plants and trees. They prefer to feed on fruit trees but will feed on over 300 different plant species.
Adults are about 10 mm long, with a shiny metallic green body and coppery-brown wing covers and the white tufts(hairs) which project from under the wing covers. The larvae stage feeds on roots of grass and plants. The adult beetles are skeletonizers, eating the leaves but leaving the veins. Populations are at the highest during the hot, humid summer months.
Preventing Japanese Beetle
These beetles have been present in Ontario for many years, as a result, complete removal is not an option. While the damage can look alarming, most healthy trees will recover naturally without long-term effects.
Residents can help manage the beetles on their property by handpicking them from trees and plants and placing them in soapy water (make sure you use a thin glove while doing this). Keeping your plants healthy and well-maintained will also help them recover from damage.