Insect

Japanese Beetles

Found primarily in the eastern United States, this pest eats almost everything except vegetables. The C-shaped grubs whitish, up to 1-inch-long, with brown heads and three pairs of legs feed heavily on plant roots; lawns are especially likely to be attacked. When the 1/2 inch long, metallic green beetles with coppery wing covers emerge, they decimate the above ground parts of roses and other plants.

Target: Leaves, flowers, and fruit of over 275 plant species; lawns.

Damage: Leaves are skeletonized, and flowers and fruit are eaten (adults); brown patches of lawn roll up like carpet (larvae).

Life cycle: Grubs spend most of the year deep in the soil; in early spring, they come nearer to the surface to feed, then pupate. Adults emerge in summer, feed for about 6 weeks, and lay eggs in the soil. The cycle may take 2 years to complete.