This has been one of the most prolific seasons for Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) in Ohio for many years.  High localized populations were observed throughout the state.  Adult populations of both the Northern Masked Chafer (Cyclocephala borealis) and the Southern Masked Chafer (C. lurida), two of our other common “white grub producing” beetles, were also very high this season.

Of course, high adult populations of these beetles do not necessarily translate into damaging white grub numbers.  Both the chafers and Japanese beetles lay dehydrated eggs that must absorb water from the soil in order to develop, so wet soil conditions support a greater egg hatch which means more white grubs.  Unfortunately, we experienced those conditions in many parts of the state.

White Grub Management Strategies

Cultural Control

Here is a primer for white grub management.  First, these Continue reading Grub Control Treatment in your Lawn should happen NOW →

Bring a friend. It’s free and includes hot dogs, entertainment and children’s activities.

The Licking County Master Gardener volunteers invite you to come to Newark and “get inspired” at their annual Garden Open House. It happens from 10 to 2 on July 21, and is free. The location is their Learning Garden tucked behind the OSU Extension office at 771 East Main Street in Newark.

Explore and discover this Licking County garden gem. Several themed garden plots will awaken the senses as you meander through the garden paths. Visit Continue reading Garden Open House; You’re Invited! →

SWD larva feeding on a raspberry

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is a fruit fly that over the past five years has become a significant pest of fruit crops such as strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, grape, peach and plum. This insect causes damage when its larva – tiny white worms – feed on and within ripening fruit.

Beginning in early June throughout Ohio a number of county OSU Extension offices regularly monitor for the presence of SWD on several fruit farms. By the third week of June this year SWD had been detected in Clinton, Franklin, Greene, and Wayne Counties. Similarly, small fruit growers who have fruit that is ripe or near ripening should also be Continue reading Spotted Wing Drosophila Remains a Concern for Fruit Growers →

Symptoms of early blight on a tomato leaf.

Wet weather is a major contributor to a variety of diseases and pests in gardens, lawns, and shrubs. Many fungal and bacterial pathogens thrive in warm and humid conditions. Those conditions are also ideal for a variety of insect pests.

Tomato diseases are some of most often reported issues through the Extension Office. Most are soilborne diseases that can persist for multiple Continue reading Tomato Diseases in the Garden →