Managing Japanese Beetles in Niagara Through Lawn Care

In just over a month, in early to mid-July, Niagara's Japanese beetle population will typically start to appear and stick around until mid-August. Even though they have been in Canada for almost a century, Japanese beetles are very much an invasive plant pest that need to be managed with (lawn) care.

Why Not Squish Japanese Beetles?

It's important that when captured, Japanese beetles aren't squished as this might result in a release of chemicals that attract other Japanese beetles. If you find a Japanese beetle while doing regular lawn and garden maintenance, it's recommended that you put them in soapy water to kill them. Ron's Lawns includes a placement of pheromone traps for Japanese Beetles in the summer portion of our popular Feed & Seed program. It's recommended that traps are strategically set by professionals to ensure they don't end up attracting more pests to your property. It's also recommended that other means of deterrent are done professionally so as not to damage the foliage and wildlife (other insects like bees have great value!) in your area.

Where to Look: What do Japanese Beetles Like to Eat at Different Lifecycle Stages?

Adult Japanese beetles tend to stick to foliage and fruit, their favourite culprits being members of the rose family and specific types of trees including fruit, maple, birch, ash, and linden. They also like certain berry bushes and specific flowers like geraniums. It's a good idea to do a quick scan of these plants if you have them to ensure they aren't being bothered.

Larvae feed on the roots of grass and plants and vegetables, making this stage more destructive for turf in Niagara. During this initial stage, usually in August and September, affected turf will wilt and turn yellow. As the damage progresses, the grass will die and patches will start to form. To confirm the cause, affected areas can be lifted to reveal the grubs beneath.

How Regular Lawn Care Detracts Japanese Beetles

Because many weeds are hosts to adult Japanese beetles, grassy or weedy areas can act as a breeding ground for the pest. Good weed control helps to eliminate breeding areas and food sources for Japanese beetles. By starting lawn maintenance in the Spring and continuing this into Summer and Fall, you are protecting your property from Japanese beetles and other pests.

Our Service Areas

Ron's Lawns has proudly been providing lawn care, garden maintenance, and weed & feed services to the Niagara region for almost 50 years. For lawn care in Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Pelham Region, Lincoln, Grimsby, and more - contact us for a Free Estimate.