Beetle Larvae (Chafer Grubs & Vine Weevil Grubs)
Soil-dwelling larvae feeding on roots, causing severe wilting and plant loss.
Chafer grubs and vine weevil larvae feed on plant roots below soil level. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing and sudden plant collapse. Grubs are C-shaped, creamy white and cause heavy losses in container crops, turf and ornamentals. Biological control relies on nematodes such as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora for chafer grubs, and Steinernema kraussei / Steinernema carpocapsae for vine weevil larvae.
Biological Controls for Beetle Larvae (Chafer Grubs & Vine Weevil Grubs)
The options below are examples of beneficial insects and biological products commonly used against beetle larvae (chafer grubs & vine weevil grubs). Always refer to supplier guidance and product labels for crop safety and local registration status.
Heterorhabditis bacteriophora + Steinernema kraussei
Product: Exhibitline Hb + Nemasys L
Environment: outdoor
Temperature Range: 5.0 – 25.0°C
Rate: As per chafer and vine weevil nematode programmes
Frequency: One or two applications per season
Larval complexes of beetles in soil treated using the same nematode programmes as chafer grubs and vine weevil.
Related Biological Solutions
Growers dealing with beetle larvae (chafer grubs & vine weevil grubs) often also monitor these pests as part of a complete IPM programme: