The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has reported that, as of this week, Japanese beetle adults are flying and starting to feed on leaves of woody plants (Syringa, Tilia, Ulmus, Prunus, Rosa). Look for metallic, coppery-green beetles with white tufts of hairs along the edge of their abdomens.
The most effective method of dealing with the adults is to hand pick and destroy them. Garden centres do sell pheromone traps that attract the adults; however, you may simply succeed in bringing the beetles into your garden from a neighbouring one. If you decide to use the traps, always place them AWAY from susceptible host trees and shrubs. You will find a more detailed management plan in our Ask a Master Gardener section. Just click here.