Larvae are "C"-shaped, cream-colored white grubs with brown heads that reach 3/4 - 1 inch (20-25 mm) long when mature. Grubs overwinter 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) deep in the soil. As spring temperatures increase, the grubs move up in the soil to feed on grass and other small roots. They pupate in late May to June and adults start emerging in late June to mid-July. Adults live from 30 to 45 days, feed through late summer or early fall. They feed on decaying matter but soon feed on roots as they move deeper to an overwintering site.

Many gardeners and homeowners consider the Japanese Beetle (actually first introduced from Korea) to be one of the most serious pests they face. These little buggers cause serious root damage (particularly to lawns) in their grub phase, where they also serve as a sort of blazing neon sign to marauding critters reading “Dig Up This Beautiful Lawn and EAT ME Please!” The adults are also overwhelmingly naughty in their ability to defoliate faster than you can say Popillia japonica. Or even faster. But with a comprehensive plan of attack you can get the better of these beasts. Here’s how:

1. Treat with a combination of Milky Spore and NemaSeek beneficial nematodes in either the spring or the fall. The nematodes help to distribute the Milky Spore. This combination of organisms also works synergistically to most effectively control the grubs. Milky Spore only has to be applied once.
   
   
2. If your larval infestation is severe, apply Grub Beater as well. The active ingredient (neem) is not harmful to either beneficial nematodes or the bacteria in Milky Spore.
   
   
3. Treat again with NemaSeek beneficial nematodes six months after your first application to further distribute the Milky Spore and to eliminate newly developing grubs.
   
   
4. Enjoy being Beetle Free! (Some people continue to apply nematodes every other year or so as a preventative measure).