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Black
Vine Weevil , also called
the Taxus Weevil , is slightly larger than the
strawberry
root weevil and the two are often confused with one another. The
Adult weevils feed nocturnally on a variety of plants. The larvae feed
on the plant’s roots. Larval damage by the black vine weevil is the most
severe. Larval feeding occurs through the
growing season . They burrow deeper in the ground to overwinter and
resume feeding the following spring.
Although the biology and habits are very similar to the strawberry root weevil, the black vine weevil feeds on more plant varieties. They feed on various shrubs, including rhododendrons, azaleas, hemlock, yews and various evergreens.
The adult is a about 3/8 inches
long, black and wingless . All of the weevils are females and they
reproduce
parthenogenetically {No Sex} laying as many as 500 eggs each . Since they do not fly, they migrate
primarily by walking The weevils feed at night, making the prying
Mantid a good choice of predator. They feed on foliage, chewing out
notches, damage is usually not severe.
The grub is a legless, white larva with a wrinkled c-shaped
appearance. It is found in the soil under host plants. When
disturbed, the adults play possum, - pretend to be dead.
As Weevils move through the soil they are extremely vulnerable to nematodes which are microscopic non-segmented worms which occur naturally in soil Thousands of strains exist. Beneficial nematodes only attack soil dwelling insects and not plants . The nematodes enter the host through body openings or by penetration of the body wall. Once inside they release a bacterium which kills the host within 48 hours.
Diatomaceous Earth is highly effective against the soft bodied Grubs.
Acephate
|
Targets adult stage.
Apply in the early evening when adults emergence is
complete but before egg laying for best results. Apply
as per label instructions. There are many pesticides
registered which contain acephate , many are labeled for
use against fire ants but are also effective against
snout beetles and weevils - read label before applying.
If using on a relatively large area you may want to try
Bonide Systemic Liquid 
which I have had success with in the
past. |
|
Beneficial Nematodes |
Targets Larvae Stage - Apply in spring or fall when the larvae are most active. Follow label instructions / requirements. |
|
Diatomaceous Earth |
Diatomaceous Earth is highly effective against the soft bodied Grubs. |
