1479 Root weevils
Root weevils are a nuisance because these beetles wander into homes in hot, dry summer weather and because they damage woody plants. Strawberry root weevil, rough strawberry root weevil and black vine weevil are the three species found in the state. Euonymus, lilac and peony are the plants most commonly damaged. Insects are rarely seen because feeding occurs at night. Rectangular notches of leaf edges differentiate root weevil damage from that of leaf cutter bees (half-moon shaped cuts) or grasshoppers (irregular chewing).
Root weevils overwinter as nearly full-grown, pale legless larvae that feed on the roots of strawberry, raspberry, clover, spruce and other plants. Some may overwinter as adults. Pupation occurs in the soil and the 1/4 to 1/2 inch long adults emerge in June. Adults hide and lay eggs near the crowns of plants.
On plants, apply acephate (Orthene) as soon as leaf notching is observed. Foliage applications for adult leaf-notching may need to be repeated at 3 week intervals from July through August. Acephate is also used to treat for root injury due to larval feeding. Foliage and soil drench treatments should be made starting in June to kill adults before egg-laying.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
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