Knowledgebase

grubs? #861752

Asked March 17, 2024, 4:27 PM EDT

I'm wondering what these grubs are that I'm finding in my garden beds, and are they pests or harmless to my vegetables and plants? I also have a lot of potato bugs and worms, are these okay for garden beds? 

Thanks so much for your help! 

Marion County Oregon

Expert Response

Dear Jessica,

Thank you for contacting us about the pests in your garden. Grubs are the larvae of various insects including crane flies, beetles, and several types of chafers. Larvae typically cause damage by feeding on plant roots. The adults of some species may also feed on foliage. 

The insect in your photo may be a leatherjacket, a common pest in lawns. however, larvae need to be identified to determine the appropriate controls. It would be best to bring samples of the larvae to the Marion County Extension office for closer inspection. The garden help desk is normally open Mondays through Fridays from 9 am to 1 pm. 

If there are grubs in your vegetable beds, hand-pick and destroy them. For control of the adult potato beetles, please see "Management-chemical control: HOME USE" in the following article: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/irish-potato/potato-irish-colorado-potato-beetle

Regarding worms, earthworms are not considered a problem pest and are generally beneficial. However, the invasive jumping worms have been found in Oregon. These are distinctive and can cause a great deal of damage. If you find jumping worms in your yard, please report them immediately: https://today.oregonstate.edu/news/invasive-jumping-worms-leap-oregon

I hope this information is helpful. If you have additional questions, please write again or visit the Extension office:
1320 Capitol St NE #110, Salem, OR 97301
Phone:<personal data hidden>
Best Regards, Replied March 20, 2024, 4:27 AM EDT

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