4. Garden Management (For the Grubs)
If you notice large patches of dead grass or see birds digging up your lawn (they love eating the grubs), you might have an infestation.
- Nematodes: Beneficial nematodes (microscopic worms) can be applied to soil to naturally control grub populations.
- Milky Spore: A natural bacterial disease that targets Japanese Beetle and June Bug grubs.
- Manual Collection: In the evening, shake susceptible trees (like oak or maple) over a sheet to collect falling beetles, then dispose of them in soapy water.
The Bottom Line
The Cockchafer (or June Bug) is a nuisance, not a threat. It’s a sign of spring, a bit of ecological chaos, and a test of your reflexes. While their larvae can be tough on gardens, the adults are mostly just confused tourists looking for a light source.
So, if one lands on your toilet paper roll, just show it the door. It has a very short life to live, and it probably wants to spend it outside, not in your bathroom.