Each summer, Japanese beetles make their unwelcome return to Michigan landscapes, and they can quickly become a major nuisance for homeowners and property managers alike. These invasive pests typically begin emerging in early July, and they don’t come quietly. Known for their appetite, Japanese beetles feed on the foliage, flowers, and fruits of more than 300 different plant species. Among their favorite trees are lindens, crab apples, plums, cherry trees, certain willows, and the stunning crimson maple.
You can identify adult Japanese beetles by their shiny, metallic green bodies and bronze-colored wings. One telltale sign of an infestation is the lace-like pattern they leave behind after feeding on leaves. This “skeletonizing” effect not only looks unsightly, but it also weakens trees and shrubs, reducing their ability to photosynthesize and ultimately stressing the plant.
What You Can Do
Timing is everything. Effective control of Japanese beetles focuses on targeting the adult stage. At Garpiel Group, our licensed arborists apply two carefully timed foliar sprays using industry-approved insecticides. This treatment knocks down active beetles and leaves a residual effect, killing any adults that arrive later and feed on treated foliage.
Avoid beetle traps. While it may seem like a proactive measure, setting out Japanese beetle traps can actually make the problem worse. These traps attract beetles from surrounding areas, often drawing more to your yard than would have otherwise arrived, increasing the likelihood of damage.
Early Detection Is Key
If you notice beetles on your property or see skeletonized leaves, don’t wait to act. Early detection and treatment can help prevent long-term damage and protect your trees during their peak growing season.
You can learn more about Japanese beetles and recommended management strategies from Michigan State University Extension here:
👉 Japanese beetles – MSU Extension
We’re Here to Help
If you spot these pesky critters on your property, contact our Board Certified Master Arborist, Don Churchill, today. He and our tree care team are ready to assess the situation and provide expert recommendations to help keep your landscape healthy and beautiful all season long.