Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00001721
11/12/99
Root-feeding insects (white grubs)
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 (Vis. 1) adult
insects and the damage they cause by feeding on plant leaves
are described in the weevil and scarab beetle sections.
Weevil grubs (Vis. 2) 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.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
heatley@msue.msu.edu . Please read our
disclaimer for important
information about using our site.