grubs are feeding on the roots of plants. Many of these types of grubs are the
same types that feed in compost piles. Some people refer to them as “compost
worms”.
 |
| Grubs feeding on the roots of Lantana |
are frequently large beetles that we see flying in June and July.
 |
| Grub Guard is one of the products containing beneficial nematodes |
The eggs of
these larvae or worms were laid in March. If there are lots of them, their feeding
in the months of March, April and May can cause plants like Lantana and agave to
decline and even die.
There are organic options. I personally have not used them but I have received good reports on the use of both beneficial nematodes and bacteria specifically designed for grubs.The bacterium is usually referred to as “milky spore”.The nematodes are usually referred to as “beneficial nematodes”.These do not kill grubs immediately but do have a long-term effect in keeping the populations low over a long period of time. Look for the words Steinernema carpocapsae in the ingredients.
insects is usually accomplished with applications of chemicals as granules or a
liquid diluted in water and poured around the roots of the plants. Sprays or
dusts applied to the leaves or foliage will not control these types of pests.
 |
| This is the insecticide that contains imidacloprid. |
One of the most effective
chemicals has imidacloprid, as an active ingredient listed in its label and sold
by any nursery, garden or box store. But any chemical listed for controlling “grubs”
should work and is permitted as long as it includes the plant that your
treating on its label.
One word of precautionon the use of imidacloprid; It has been implicated (but not proven) to possibly contribute to some environmental problems including colony collapse disorder of honey bees (CCD).
Research implicating imidacloprid in CCD
If you do use this product, I would not apply it to flowering plants and only apply it as a liquid, soil drench and not as a foliar spray.
questions contact me through my email, [email protected],
or on my blog Xtremehorticulture of the Desert.