Green June Bug
These metallic green insects are nearly one inch long but they start their life cycle as a grub in the soil. Green June beetle larvae are actually edible (Lion King movie anyone?) and are often found in the ground but also on sidewalks and driveways around the home. Adult beetles feed on the foliage and fruit of trees in mid-summer, often causing damage to the foliage similar to that of Japanese beetles just not quite on the same scale. They are particularly fond of peaches, plums and grapes. Grubs feed on decaying organic matter as well as the underground portions of plants such as sweet potatoes and carrots. Unlike other grubs these insects do not cause damage to the turf other than the tunneling that they do. In an unique note, Green June beetle grubs have been known to feed on Japanese beetle grubs and cutworms so there is some thought they could have a beneficial impact. Usually control is not needed for these insects, however the grubs are susceptible to carbaryl sprinkled on the soil surface (don’t water it it as the grubs come to the surface) unlike other grubs in the soil. The adults can be easily caught or knocked into a bucket of soapy water if they are a nuisance. These insects are attracted to over ripe fruit so be sure to pick fruits as they ripen to reduce the chances the adults will visit your orchard.
