We are having a backyard wedding this summer in August and this bug is back. It makes a nasty red smear when crushed. Last summer it dominated all the chairs and deck as we couldn’t sit or hang laundry. We have a curly willow and a large evergreen, maybe Balsam nearby. Can you help me get rid of it.
I live in Swansea enjoyed the Swansea tour immensely and thank you for that.
Thank you for contacting the Toronto Master Gardeners.
You may have a version of Willow Leaf Beetles. There are several species of this beetle and yours seem to be the imported one as identified in this article RHS Willow Leaf Beetles The control of this beetle, as you have figured out is not easy.
Please note, we are not entomologists so to double check if this beetle is the actually the Willow Leaf beetle, perhaps you could check on iNaturalist – an app for your phone or tablet that is very good at identifying insects. This could confirm if we have the correct insect. If so, the following information would be useful in the management of the beetle.
Here is a good Canadian website that provides information on how to identify, the lifecycle and management of the Willow leaf beetle as well as other species of the willow leaf beetle. the willow leaf beetle
Control and management of this beetle will not be an easy task but if you are persistent, you may have it undercontrol by August. Good Luck.