Attack of Green June Beetles

Green June beetle adults often emerge in large numbers following a period of rainy weather that softens the soil. Henderson County residents are already reporting them. They buzz around the yard and may seem menacing, but they are completely harmless to humans. Green June beetles are most common in older lawns and pastures with high organic content soils or which have been fertilized with manure. The adult June beetle is an attractive green and gold-colored beetle, which feeds as a minor chafer on the foliage and fruit of trees in mid summer.

Sevin insecticide can be used to protect foliage and fruit, also, if needed. Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 67 provides information on controlling green June beetle grubs, which is rarely necessary for the homeowner.

The amazing behavior of grubs crawling above ground on their backs is also characteristic of this insect. Click here for a link to a movie clip of this behavior on the University of Arkansas website.

Successful Gardening in the Mountains

Coming soon!

This is a program designed for homeowners who want to learn more about how to successfully manage their home landscapes and gardens. This class consists of 10 participants who will travel to each of the other participants homes to discuss issues related to their specific location. This class meets twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-12pm. Participants will learn about plant selection, pruning, planting, pest issues and other issues that arise during the class. This class is conducted in the field and requires the ability to navigate different terrains. The initial meeting will be conducted at the extension office. This class will last 5 weeks. Cost for this program $25.

The first session of this program will begin on Tuesday, May 13th. For more information call 456-3575

Turf Time

Now is the time to begin planning for planting or renovating your cool season lawns. Seeding of cool season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue should be done around August 15 to September 1. If using tall fescue cultivars use about 6 pounds per thousand square feet. Apply a starter-type fertilizer such as 0-10-20 at the time of seeding. Keep the seedbed moist with light, frequent sprinklings several times a day to ensure good germination. For further details on planting a new lawn or renovating and existing lawn contact your local county extension agent or see Carolina Lawns at the following websiet: http://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/pubs/extension/CarolinaLawnsAccessible.pdf