How to Get Rid of June Bugs Effectively
Understanding June Bugs
June bugs, also known as June beetles or May bugs, are common insects that can be a nuisance in lawns and gardens. They belong to the Phyllophaga genus and are characterized by their reddish-brown color, hard wing shells, and 1/2- to 1-inch length.
While adult June bugs primarily feed on plant leaves and stems, their larvae, known as grubs, can cause significant damage to turfgrass roots. Grubs can spend several years underground, feeding on plant roots and potentially damaging lawns and gardens.
Signs of a June Bug Infestation
- Adult June bugs: Large flying beetles present in large numbers on summer evenings.
- Brown patches on lawn: Spreading patches of dying grass, indicating grub feeding on roots.
- Small holes in lawn: Holes dug by animals searching for grubs.
- Mole problems: Moles may be present due to grub infestations.
- Ragged holes in plant leaves: Adult June bugs feeding on above-ground plants.
Methods for Controlling June Bugs
1. Trapping Adult June Bugs
- Place a mixture of 1/2 cup molasses and 1/2 cup water in a narrow-necked container to attract and trap adult June bugs.
- Utilize commercial beetle traps designed to lure and trap beetles.
2. Applying Beneficial Nematodes
- Nematodes are microscopic soil worms that feed on insect larvae, including June bug grubs.
- Apply nematodes during midsummer to late summer when grubs are active.
- Mix nematodes with a garden sprayer and apply to a wet lawn in the evening.
- Water thoroughly to distribute nematodes into the soil.
- Multiple applications may be required over several years for effective control.
3. Applying Milky Spores
- Milky spores are a bacterium that can control grub beetles, including June bugs.
- Apply milky spores in fall when grubs are close to the surface.
- Mix milky spores with water and apply with a sprayer or as a granular powder.
- Water thoroughly after application.
- Repeated treatments over several years may be necessary for severe infestations.
4. Using Curative Insecticides
- Insecticides containing carbaryl or trichlorfon can be used to kill grubs and prevent them from becoming adults.
- Apply these insecticides in September when grubs are close to the surface.
- Water in thoroughly to distribute the chemicals and kill grubs.
- These chemicals are toxic and should be used with caution, following all label instructions.
5. Using Preventive Insecticides
- Insecticides containing imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, clothianidin, or chlorantraniliprole can prevent new grubs from hatching.
- Apply these insecticides in early to midsummer.
- Timing is crucial for effective control.
Preventing June Bugs
- Reduce fertilizer and chemical use to encourage natural predators of grubs.
- Dethatch lawns regularly to reduce grub populations.
- Attract birds to your landscape, as they feed on adult June bugs and grubs.
- Encourage the presence of bats, toads, and snakes, which also control June bugs.
FAQ
Q: Do June bugs bite? A: No, June bugs do not have the mouthparts to bite humans or pets.
Q: Are June bugs attracted to light? A: Yes, June bugs are attracted to porch and yard lights.
Q: Do June bugs eat roses? A: Common June bugs do not feed on roses. However, Japanese beetles, which also produce grubs, can damage roses and other plants.