By Trish Svoboda

Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini warns gardeners about two pests that threaten landscapes- the Green June Beetle and the Walnut Caterpillar. Both these insects are especially active this time of year.

Domenghini offers information on how to identify and get rid of these intruders.

Green June Beetles’ larvae are cream-colored and range from one-quarter to 2 inches long. They transform into nearly one-inch adult Green June Beetles. These beetles have velvety-green oval bodies with orange-yellow edges and reddish-brown wing covers. Larvae damage lawns by tunneling underground, feeding on roots, and causing surface mounds. Adults skeletonize leaves and may feed on fruit trees. Domenghini suggests applying carbaryl (Seven Dust) or malathion to deter their impact.

Walnut Caterpillars’ young larvae start yellowish-green and a quarter-inch long, darkening to nearly black at two inches. Shed larval skins resemble hairballs on tree trunks. Adult moths are light brown with four stripes spanning almost two-inch wingspans. They skeletonize leaves and fully consume them, favoring walnut, pecan, and hickory trees. Domenghini recommends Spinosad like Natural Guard or Captain Jack’s for organic control, or synthetic options like permethrin, malathion, or cyfluthrin.