A Memorial University horticulturalist says the discovery that invasive Japanese beetles are overwintering in the province is bad news.
The provincial government last week confirmed that the creatures have been found in the general environment in the St. John’s area, proving that they were able to survive the winter.
Photo via Boulder Books
Todd Boland says their presence could prove detrimental.
Unlike other insect species that feed on certain plants, there are some 300 plants that the Japanese beetle feeds on, “they’re a very serious vegetable pest, they’re very serious for perennial gardens and for fruit trees.”
Boland says getting rid of them is difficult because they’re resistant to many of the modern-day insecticides. He says if you see them, squash them.
“If you see these relatively small, but very noticeable metallic green and bronzy coloured beetles, squat them immediately. As soon as you see them, pick them off the plant, and crush them between your fingers, or step on them on the ground.”
