Root-feeding insects (white grubs)
Root-feeding insects (white grubs)
List of files and visuals associated with this text.
The two most important groups of insects that feed on landscape plant roots in the soil are weevil larvae and scarab beetle larvae. These immature soil insects are often referred to as "white grubs." The adult insects and the damage they cause by feeding on plant leaves are described in the weevil and scarab beetle sections.
Weevil grubs vary in size from 1/16 inch to 3/8 inch long, while the larger scarab grubs may reach a length of 1 1/2 inches. Weevil grubs can be distinguished from scarab grubs by the weevil grubs' lack of legs. Larvae of the black vine weevil and strawberry root weevil are frequent pests of landscape plants. Scarab grubs, such as June beetle larvae, occasionally attack trees and shrub roots. Scarab grubs become a serious problem when trees or shrubs are planted into an area previously maintained as sod or pasture. The starving grubs then feed on the tree or shrub roots, causing serious damage.
Visuals associated with this text.
| Visual title - Visual size | Visual title - Visual size |
|---|---|
| June beetle - 31K | White grub damage on potato. - 36K |
| White grub damage on lawn - 71K | White grub - 52K |
| Wireworm damage on carrot - 25K | Wireworm - 27K |
