Beetle Bugs - Knowledgebase Question

Enfield, CT
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Question by jflynn
March 27, 2000
Last year in late summer,early fall I discovered in my soil a very LARGE beetle looking bug. It buried itself in the soil, it almost reminded me of a June bug. The worms I found in the soil either came from the beetle or the beetle laid the eggs I just don't know. What I do know is they ate all my roots of the plants. The worm was probally as large as my baby finger and white/opeque in color.Not a pleasant sight. Now I don't mind using chemicals to rid my problem but I don't know what I am up against. I am a novice gardener. Can you help me?


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Answer from NGA
March 27, 2000
Unfortunately, based on your description, I am not certain which particular beetle you discovered, but the white worms were most likely grubs (meaning immature beetles of some sort). Grubs can eat plant roots and in some cases beneficial nematodes can be used to control them without chemicals. This can be important if they are in your vegetable garden. Another method is to simply squash them as you find them while working the soil. Finally, you might want to take a sample to your county extension for a more precise identification and suggested controls.

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