The Japanese beetle is one of the most destructive invasive pests, capable of wreaking havoc on commercial and residential landscapes alike. These highly invasive pests have been detected in British Columbia, and, with peak activity expected from June onwards, now is the time to take action.
More than just a nuisance, it’s a serious threat to the health of commercial and strata landscapes. Left unchecked, Japanese beetles can cause significant damage to trees, shrubs, and turf.
They feed on the leaves, flowers, and roots of over 300 plant species, leaving properties vulnerable to widespread defoliation and weakened landscapes.
For property managers and commercial landscapers, early detection and preventative measures are key to reducing long-term impact and avoiding costly damage.
Here’s what you need to know and how Premier Landscaping is helping to manage this growing concern.
How to Spot and Identify Japanese Beetles
The Japanese beetle is easily recognisable by its metallic green body and copper-colored wings.
Adult beetles emerge in early summer, typically when temperatures exceed 21°C. They quickly become active in large groups, feeding on foliage and creating a lace-like skeleton of leaves.
While adult beetles cause visible damage to trees and plants, their larvae are equally destructive.
Grubs live underground, feeding on turfgrass roots and causing widespread lawn damage. Patches of grass that turn brown and pull up easily may be a sign of Japanese beetle larvae at work.
How Japanese Beetles Damage Commercial & Strata Landscapes
For property managers, a Japanese beetle infestation can lead to higher costs, ongoing maintenance challenges, and long-term landscape damage.
Left unchecked, infestations can result in:
Weakened Landscapes
As beetles feed on leaves and flowers, plants become stressed and vulnerable to disease, leading to decline or even complete loss of key greenery. This can significantly affect curb appeal and the overall health of the property.
Compromised Turf & Green Spaces
Japanese beetle larvae target grass roots, causing lawns to thin out and die in patches. A single season of heavy infestation can turn lush lawns into patchy, dying turf, requiring expensive re-sodding or reseeding.
Rising Maintenance & Treatment Costs
A reactive approach to infestations often leads to higher costs, including additional treatments, turf restoration, and plant replacements. Beyond the direct expenses, unchecked infestations can strain landscaping budgets by increasing labor demands, disrupting scheduled maintenance plans, and impacting overall property aesthetics.
Preventative strategies, such as early detection, regular inspections, and plant selection that reduces vulnerability, help mitigate these costs and keep landscapes healthy year-round.
Preventative Measures: How We’re Helping Clients Stay Ahead
At Premier Landscaping, we take a proactive approach to managing invasive pests like the Japanese beetle.
Our team is implementing early detection strategies and working closely with clients to prevent infestations before they escalate.
Here’s how we’re tackling the issue:
- Working with BCLNA & CFIA
Since 2019 we have been working closely with CFIA & BCLNA to help curb the movement of the Japanese Beetle. - Regular Monitoring & Inspections
Our crews are trained to spot the early signs of Japanese beetle activity, ensuring rapid intervention if needed. - Know the Laws
We work with our clients to be aware of any debris movement restrictions from different cities and municipalities. By restricting movement of landscaping debris, we can help reduce the spread of the Japanese Beetle. - Turf Management & Larvae Control
Healthy, well-maintained turf is less vulnerable to infestation. We implement aeration and overseeding techniques to strengthen root systems and apply larval control treatments where necessary. - Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies
By combining cultural, biological, and mechanical control methods, we help minimise the need for chemical treatments while effectively managing outbreaks.
What Property Managers Can Do Now to Reduce the Risk
With Japanese beetle activity expected to rise in the coming months, taking early action is the best way to protect your property and avoid costly damage.
Proactive measures now can reduce infestations later and safeguard your landscape investment.
Here’s what property managers can do today:
- Schedule regular landscaping inspections
Early detection is key. A professional landscaping team can identify beetle activity before it escalates, recommending treatment options to stop infestations in their tracks. - Educate staff and residents on proper plant disposal
Japanese beetle larvae often spread through contaminated soil and plant material. Ensuring that clippings, leaves, and soil are properly disposed of—or restricted in quarantine zones—can prevent further infestations. - Partner with a knowledgeable landscaping team
Working with experts who understand Japanese beetle risks means having a plan in place to protect your property. From preventative treatments to long-term strategies, the right landscaping partner can help minimize impact, maintain plant health, and reduce costs over time.
By acting now, property managers can avoid reactive, expensive fixes and keep their landscapes thriving year-round.
Plan Ahead & Protect Your Landscape from Japanese Beetles
Managing invasive pests requires expertise, planning and early intervention.
At Premier Landscaping, we’re already working with our clients to put these preventative strategies in place, helping properties stay ahead of Japanese beetle season.
If you’re concerned about Japanese beetle activity on your site, we’re here to help. Contact us now to discuss a prevention plan tailored to your property’s needs.
