White grubs feed on the leaves of plants from the upper side, and do not leave the plant until they are in skeletonized appearanceWhite grubs are larvae of scarabs, a large group of beetles considered to be a perennial pest of the cool season and transition zone turf grasses. Having a C shape body, the significant species include the Japanese beetle, May or June beetles, Northern and Southern masked chafers, and Black Turfgrass Ataenius. The Japanese beetle is easily distinguished by its glossy appearance. Its metallic green color on its body is in sharp contrast to the bronze hue of their outer wings. As they mature, Japanese beetles can sever plants in gardens and landscape. During daytime in each spring, these grubs cluster and feed on the leaves of plants from the upper side, and do not leave the plant leaves until they are in skeletonized appearance. Feeding on the leaves of the plants is what damages ornamental plants. Originating from Asia, Popillia japonica Newman is the scientific name of Japanese beetle; it is also native to Northern China, Japan and the Far East of Russia. When it was introduced to North America, it has since become a more serious pest than in its states of origin. Sometimes called May beetles in other lands, and June beetles in another, these grubs attack the roots and grasses of lawns, pasture lands, golf courses and shrubs. Their names suggest the specific month of the year that they emerge from the soil and wreak havoc. May and June beetles sport a variety of colors from pale yellow to black, to brown and dark brown. The green June beetle may have distinct appearance, but the damage they inflict during its larval phase does not really set them apart from other white grubs. As it matures, the beetle is known as a night flier. When at rest, the white grubs of June beetle form a C shape, although they are too small to feed on the major root system, they are adept at eating organic materials from the soil. When they grow larger, they feed on the hair roots of the plants. In cooler temperatures, they find shelter deep into the soil where they are protected from winter, and begin the period of hibernation. They emerge again in warm weather and feed. Some species of white grubs pupate through another winter. Once this cycle completes, the adult June beetles emerges from the soil. The grubs of Northern and Southern masked chafers originate in North America. The Southern masked chafer attack turf grasses in the transition zones such as the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescues, and the Bermuda grass in the Southern area. The attacks of Northern masked chafers, on the other hand, are directed at cool season turf, particularly when grubs of Japanese beetles are successfully annihilated. Youngsters of masked chafers feed on the roots of field crops specifically the wheat, oats and corns. The adults, however, do not feed, which may sound surprising to some. Golf courses’ public enemy number one is the grubs of Black Turf Grass Ataenius. They are scattered all over Ohio. Early signs of their presence are wilted spot in the turf. Primarily, they feed on the roots of annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and bentgrass. Having two generations per year, the onslaughts of white grubs of Black Turf Grass Ataenius are in May and August. They are recognized with their black scarab appearance, 6 millimeters long and are found in well-watered and fertilized areas. To receive automatic updates whenever changes are made to our site visit our BLOG PAGE today. This page listed under Lawn Care Tips |